Tonight the Burns Lake Public Library had Robert “Bob” Hamblin a poet from Houston, BC come to recite his poems and songs. His style reminds me of “Cowboy Poerty” simple yet deep and heartfelt.
I love meeting Authors and Poets from our surrounding area. I love learning about the history of an area through the stories of our Elders. Bob has lived in the Houston area since 1955. I believe Houston is about half and hour from us. He has a tremor in both hands that are only noticeable when he is turning pages. He has the kindest eyes and a genuine grandfather smile. He talked to each of the girls, shook their hands and made them feel welcomed.
It is the first time Milena actually sat through a reading without me having to “shush” her numerous times. She sat drawing and listening quietly. Seren was enthralled. Neither girls have been to a poetry reading. I was worried they’d be bored. I am glad I was wrong. I hope this inspires them.
Bob told a story behind each of the poems he recited and songs he sang. These are a few that he shared with the 8 of us:
- CN Corridor
- Hello Operator
- The Bobs
- Brother Doug
- Camping at Francios
- Memories of a Loved One
- Avalanche
- Highway of Tears
- Old Dave Fishing
He spoke of his Brother Doug. The death of so many Moose on the CN railroad. The anguish of all the Women/girls who have gone missing on the Highway of Tears. The Bobs is about a group of guys who got stuck in a snowstorm in 2008 when 4feet of snow fell in 33hrs. Avalanche speaks of 3 young men killed in a Ski-doo accident.
All his writings are from the past and stories that inspired him to write.
I can’t wait for him to come back to Burns Lake to read from his next book…which he says is halfway written. I will definitely enjoy reading his poetry.
Great Job Bob!
❤ D
