Still Life with Shoes, Emil Carlsen (c.1915)

Shoes

There is a large box in the center hall
Containing something more precious than gold
They’re what some may choose to hang on a wall
Symbols of memories from young to old

Wherever traveled my shoes took me there
Be it smooth road or rugged mountain trail
In a year’s time often had but a pair
Some failed as I walked through the nearby swale

Looking closely at my laced up new ones
Wondering what new travels are in store
Now must wary about these bunions
Shan’t detour desire of many miles more

Life is a journey of countless footsteps
Over worn shoes are signs of my journey
Scuffs and scrapes memories of my missteps
But their creases have captured life’s beauty