Where locks go when they die.

Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver - a lock graveyard.

Ever wonder where things go when they die?  Cars, we know, are hauled off in shame to the wreckers where their last service to their once benevolent masters is to be melted down as scrap.  Some of them have viable parts removed before this desecration occurs though, giving a reprieve to others.  Other objects find burial in landfills, or worse, at sea, where their remains decimate once beautiful oceans.  Locks, however, meet a different end; it seems the key to their fate is the love their owners have in them.

While visiting Lonsdale Quay I discovered a sacred lock mausoleum of sorts.  It is not the only one, of course, as many of them exist throughout the world.  In Paris, there is a famous bridge called the Pont des Arts which is a lock tomb.  It seems to be a very popular place for locks to meet their end as so many have been attached that a section of the bridge broke under the strain.  The risk at Lonsdale is relatively low as locks seem to have a much lower mortality rate there.

The irony of it all becomes clear when a closer examination of the now-expired security devices occurs.  Many of these locks have initials, an inscription, or even a love theme engraved on them by marker or stylus.  Could it be that these serve as virtual headstones for the deceased items?  Not discarded aimlessly into a metal cavern embracing a plastic bag, or thrown from a car window as key or combination have been lost, but rather placed lovingly on a fence where all can see.  These iron, brass, and aluminum devices must have been truly loved by their former owners.

Love for these metal guardians is evident; LH ♥ BK demonstrates this clearly, as do other initials surrounded by Cupid's favourite symbol.  Automobiles sometimes get names, but apparently locks always do as these inscriptions suggest.  I am sure that kind words were spoken as they were laid to rest at such a public venue.  It must have been very moving.

Certainly, such behaviour is not seen for other household items.  Kitchen gadgets are discarded and readily replaced.  No engraving or stoic positioning awaits them.  Tools of the shop and garage, while wielded by their masters for many years, eventually die and are lost to eternity.  Kind words never uttered at their demise.  Even the ubiquitous place settings end up in the trash, after having served faithfully for years.  No, it is the lock which seems to have attained our great gratitude and love.  It is the only item we possess that meets its end in this way.

I suppose it is all for the best.  If we showed such love to our cars, entire bridges and wharves would collapse under their great weight.  Imagine what our streets would look like with toasters and blenders adorning walkways.  Cutlery, bristling with sharp edges, present a significant safety risk and are disposed of with care for the safety of others.  Yes, locks, it seems, have earned our love.  May they rust in peace.

Thanks for reading.   www.ericspix.com   Eric Svendsen