• In Southampton Row

    Pompey alleyway Navy docks to Old Portsmouth Rings to goldfinch song . n.b. Even in this so densely populated English city birds’ songs resonate. The twittering of the goldfinches are a welcome distraction from the cries of cynical gulls and the occasional passing ambulance siren. . CLP 01/03/2020 Read more

  • Salix Alba Caerulea

    Deep roots draw strength From river banks; soggy fields Pink shoots top out crown . n.b. This willow, from which cricket bats are made, thrives in fresh water zones of temperate lands. In the early part of the year the tips of this salix tree bring a refreshing light red hue to winter, a hope-filled Read more

  • On 1st March

    Vivid yellows wave Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus! Except for druids . n.b. “Happy St. David’s Day” indeed. The druids were outlawed by Emperor Claudius in 54AD and in 60AD the Governor Suetonius began a campaign to wipe them from the face of Britannia. Although not entirely successful, his campaign severely reduced survivors of Druidic religion, Read more

  • Crataegeous monogyna

    Within the city Defiant displays – new life Uncontainable . CLP 01/03/2020 Read more

  • Salix Caprea

    New cycle begins Male catkins in full flower Spring’s genie is out . CLP 01/03/2020 Read more

  • The Englishman’s Castle

    Concentrated pile Fortified, gated, moated Easily besieged . n.b. Pull up the drawbridge and await fate. Castles became obsolete once knowledge of gunpowder, originating in China, spread worldwide. With the power that came with this knowledge so widely distributed, new ways of living had to be found that were more cooperative, more inclusive and resulted Read more