Award-winning children’s author Hilary Lawrence captures the spirit, beauty and resilience of Bermuda in this heartfelt tribute written in celebration of Bermuda Day. Blending history, nature and national pride, Ode to Bermuda journeys from the island’s earliest discovery to the vibrant community we know today. Rich with imagery and affection for Bermuda’s people and landscapes, the poem serves as both a love letter to the island and a reminder of the unique heritage that continues to shape Bermudian identity.
Ode to Bermuda by Hilary Lawrence
1. When God made the world, he kept Bermuda for Himself.
A breathtaking island, unlike anywhere else.
2. Its beautiful beaches have rose-pink sand,
And crystal blue waters that swash on the land.
3. The gentle breeze carries the sweet perfume,
Of tropical flower that are always in bloom.
4. Named when discovered quite by surprise,
By Juan de Bermúdez in 1505.
5. The first settlers didn’t arrive for a very long time
’Til the Sea Venture was wrecked in 1609.
6. At the helm, Sir Somers, admiral and chief,
Was forced by storm onto a treacherous reef.
7. His crew built the forts that still stand today,
Their churches and moon gates remain on display.
8. The island was landscaped with old-world charm,
Its rich volcanic soils proved fertile to farm.
9. Houses popped up in rainbow hues,
Intricately finished with charming white roofs.
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1. The Brits made a claim to this small piece of heaven,
And declared it a crown colony in 1707.
2. The colonists’ culture brought British traditions,
With laws, an army and elected politicians.
3. Bermuda became the jewel in the British crown,
With the governor residing in St. George town.
4. It quickly established strong lines of trade,
Exporting citrus and tobacco money was made.
5. But crops and tobacco suffered blight and disease,
And hurricanes ravaged the citrus trees.
6. Shipbuilding then became the island’s pride,
With Bermuda’s famed Sloop exported worldwide.
7. The island constantly adapted in order to survive,
Finding avenues for locals to prosper and thrive.
8. Now, international business supports the nation,
With insurance and reinsurance forming the foundation.
9. While in summer, tourism steals the show,
As cruise ships and sightseers come and go.
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1. Bermudians care for their land as their duty,
Knowing they live in a land of great beauty.
2. The land is farmed for spectacular diving,
On magnificent reefs which are healthy and thriving.
3. Parrot fish and turtles swim close to the bay,
With Barracuda, Hogfish and Eagle Ray.
4. In spring, whales can be seen migrating by,
Breaching and spouting water into the sky.
5. While a chorus of birdsong can always be heard:-
Kiskadees, Longtails, and Eastern Bluebirds.
6. Each evening, rich sunsets throw golden light,
And a choir of tree frogs resound through the night.
7. Glowworms light up as the light fades away,
Like stars in the ocean, a bioluminescent display.
8. Poets wax lyrical on this wonderful nation,
Which gave Shakespeare and Lennon their inspiration.
9. In the eyes of Mark Twain, it was perfectly clear,
While others sought heaven, he’d rather “stay here”!
