Helen Openshaw

Penrith, Cumbria

 

I have always written poetry, and enjoy teaching my students to write, too. I found myself writing more during lock down and have been a bit braver about sending some of my work out. I also write plays, and had a monologue commissioned by a local theatre company, Knock and Nash productions, back in May.

 

This poem was written on 23rd May 2020

 

On Beacon Edge

 

I have heard, on the Beacon a deer stirs,

close to the coming and goings of town.

The tightness of trees spins, knits, almost blurs,

Paths winding towards the jewel in a crown.

A wood that transforms you in time and space.

Numerous shades of green so dense and rich

turning the light with a magicians grace.

Could I conjure it and stand still, bewitched?

On my daily walk I seek to find it.

Staring, not moving, not breathing, just calm.

A pact is made and sworn as I submit,

the moment held like a soothing, soft balm.

Through our eyes we see nature, let it lead.

Like daily bread, for now, it meets my needs.