Liverpool, the grey city cloaked in the dust and grime of the Industrial Revolution.
Dominated by the river, second largest port in the British Isles and the inhabitants, scouses, permeated with a sense of humour that came from years of poverty.
Much of Great Britain was in the same situation, they were poor, but I’m sure that just like me, a scouse, they didn’t seem to be aware of the concept of poverty; we were too busy getting on with life and what better way to do that than with a laugh.
My memories of Liverpool are of lying in bed, 6 mile from the river listening to ship whistles, communicating with the tug-boats, as they maneuvered in and out of the docks.
Nautical terminology was synonymous in our home because most of my extended family were seafarers.
The floor was always the deck and porridge was always burgoo long before I went to sea.
Oh Liverpool Lou , Lovely Liverpool Lou
Why don't you behave just like other girls do
Why must my poor heart keep following you
Oh stay home and love me My Liverpool Lou
When I go out walking , I hear people talking
The school children playing , I know what they're saying
They're saying you'll grieve me , that you will deceive me
One morning you'll leave me All packed up and gone
The tugs on the river are telling me ever
That I should forget you Like I'd never met you
Please tell me their song love Was never so wrong love
Just say I belong love , To my Liverpool Lou.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=om1f_DzrzlE
The song says it all, it even creates the ambience of that great city.
In July 2017; it will be 60 years since I jumped ship in this wonderful country Australia: however, although an Australian citizen I will always be proud of my Liverpool heritage.
