The Mountains of Chattanooga

Chattanooga proper lies in the valley between Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge.

The battle raged into the clouds
on Lookout Mountain's lonely peak.
The slopes were littered with the shrouds
of boys, that families then would seek.
On Missionary Ridge there stands a point
of vistas long from both its sides.
A church in view to hope anoint
in victory over warring pride.

Point Park stands now a peaceful place
to sit the afternoon away,
while thinking o'er the valley's grace
of modern sights in great display.
The Bragg Reservation on the Ridge
in bold relief it's hard to hide.
The Lord must change our heart's rock/'fridge
in victory over warring pride.

Form: Canzonetta
Lines: 16

by Jay O’Toole
on August 6th, 2026