A bunch of lace at his throat
My favorite narrative poem, since the age of about nine, is the Highwayman by Alfred Noyes, first published in 1906. How’s this for a powerful opening? “The wind was a torrent of darkness among the gusty trees. The moon was a ghostly galleon tossed upon cloudy seas. The road was a ribbon of moonlight over … Read more
The plotting begins…
“Brothers and sisters! Welcome to Clayhills Place, as this fine house is now called.” The guests cheered Deneesa. She felt exhilarated. Was it the extended physical intimacy of earlier, or was it the prospect of a new power base, a national one rather than just a regional one? “Brothers and sisters, what a joy it … Read more
Bars Up!
I used to feel energized by that command from the front of the sports hall! I still do weights classes, but after hearing loss, I have to imagine it. I am aware of the voice and just follow the demonstration. I’m always a beat behind everyone else, but at least I am still trying to … Read more
Getting Lacey
I’m fired up to write about lace! I was going to write a History Elf item today about an unknown commoner who became de facto leader of Flanders centuries before the phenomenon of Oliver Cromwell in England, but Artevelde has been pipped today by lace. Marlow Museum put on a concert last night with some … Read more
Motivation
The minor irritations of life are a wet blanket for creativity. It was a relief yesterday to be staying with friends, with time to explore the lunacies of 21st century living. To take but one, the irony of communications companies being among the poorest of communicators should provide endless material for comedians. “Please hold, your … Read more
Tulip Mania
My lovely sister enabled me to achieve a long-held wish to see the Keukenhof Gardens this spring. I love tulips. I like many flowers, but tulips are special because they vary so much, and every variation has its own beauty. They can be cup-shaped, star-shaped, narrow, full or fluffy at the edges. They vary in … Read more
On Edge
I entered a poetry competition which required an “ekphrastic poem”. This is a poem inspired by a work of visual art. I enjoy going to galleries and art exhibitions of all types, but I have my favorites. Impressionism and Expressionism are really colorful, which appeals. I also like classical “still life” featuring flowers or fruit. For … Read more
Swansong
When I was visiting my cousin in Edinburgh a few years ago, she told me about the unusual swan behaviour on the local pond. I was immediately hooked on the swan saga of Craiglockhart Pond! This story is based on the true story of Brighid, one of the Craiglockhart swans. With thanks to The Friends … Read more
Beech
Let me lie In your spread copper skirts. Let me feel your toes sucking Sugar and spice from the chalky loam. Let me caress Your sculpted grey limbs, And bask in the smell Of your strength. Sway your arms in dance With the murmuring breeze, Shake the jewels in your waving hair! Let me bathe … Read more
