The true story of the painting ‘Men of the docks’
Long ago, in 1912, a hard-working man called James who lived in Liverpool wanted to find a job. He wanted to have enough money so that he can buy food for his family. Later on that day, he sat down on the wooden floor, wanting to read the latest news from his newspaper. (He crossed his fingers tightly, hoping he would find a job as he is reading.)
On the very top of the newspaper, he noticed that the title in blue letters said ‘Wanting men at the docks!’ James became very interested in this, so he started to read the whole paragraph aloud to his wife: “In America, there will be the most popular job for all strong men on the 10th November. This will take place in Brooklyn, 13 High Street. You should be here at the least of 8:40am. We will set sail at 9:00am. Remember: Only strong men are allowed!”
“The 10th of November is tomorrow!” exclaimed James’ wife, “This is a chance to earn money and buy food for us and the kids!” After 30 minutes, it was a beautiful sunset but James was already found in bed, fast asleep.
On the next day, he woke up so early as he ever did before. It was already 5:10am, but there was no chance to lose. His wife and children still sleeping, James crept down the stairs, and started to quickly pack up for the journey. At 5:24am, James was ready to take the risk and started to set sail to America. He loved the beautiful look of the wonderful, deep, blue ocean. It was exhausting, though. James didn’t have a chance to talk with anyone he knows, He was just alone. Was James able to get there on time?
It was already 6:04am. Wanting to quench his thirst and have something to eat, he kept on sailing. In an hour or two, he finally reached his destination. ‘What a relief!’ James thought, but the smile on his face didn’t last for long. He was crowed by people who also wanted to have the same job as him. Shouting, screaming and spitting, everyone suddenly pushed over each other so that they can be chosen to do the job. “SILENCE!” shouted the leader of the job, trying to shout over all the hustle and bustle, “Only 10 of you shall complete the task.” He read the list aloud. “Tony Rating, Harry Toubling, Bobby Howling..” The list went on. James really hoped that he would be chosen. ”And the last person is…” He crossed his fingers so tightly as he ever did before! ”Daniel Cowbell!! I am afraid that the rest of you have to go back to your family homes.”
With tears falling down his cheeks, he sadly walked to the boat and sailed back home. Mabye he might find something even better for the future……