Like many others in the UK and America we have been snowbound today. Those of you who have read my postings before will know that I enjoy the poetry of Edward Thomas. I found myself reading his very poignant poem entitled Snow about the 'sighing child' and her avian perceptions (I say 'her' for the child may have been Myfanwy Thomas). It made me wonder what kind of bird the child had in mind, especially since in my poetry anthology, The British Museum: Birds (ed. Mavis Pilbeam) the poem faces an egret on a Japanese silk scroll by Oda Kaisen. If you know the poem, I wonder what kind of white bird flutters through your thoughts.The two bird photographs above were taken at the Wildlife and Wetlands Trust at Penclacwydd just before the snow came. I love the sculptural way in which the Bewick swans entwine their necks around one another. The swans are named after the naturalist and engraver, Thomas Bewick. You can visit his fascinating birth place, Cherryburn, in Northumbria.
9 comments:
Beautiful Photos
phil
lovely photos, particularly the one with the swans - that is so beuaituflly composed
Love the photographs Caroline. I am also a great fan of Edward Thomas - both his poetry and his prose - I too love the snow one.
Thank you, Weaver of Grass and Crafty Green Poet: I have to assure you, though, that I can't take much credit for the swans' pose! The swans were just being swans, though I suppose I tried to 'capture' their moment. They remind me of a Hepworth or perhaps a Rodin ...
Lovely post and photos. When I lived in California, I would see white pelicans and nearly white sea gulls at the beach. In the desert where I now live, the only white birds I encounter are swans and geese at the park.
Hello Coastcard - I'm visiting via the Weaver of Grass.
I love your photos, especially the swans.
Many years ago one of my favourite poems was called Tall Nettles. I think it was by Edward Thomas. Maybe you know it?
Thank you for this, Ralph. You are right: it was Edward Thomas. You can see the original draft here. I wonder if you know 'Thistles' by Hughes? You can read a comparative piece on the two poems here.
You've beautifully captured the synchronised neck movements - well done.
Love the little egret too - they always remind me of old men - no idea why!
These are lovely photos! I'm not sure which I like best...all 3 are beautiful. Thanks for stopping by one of my blogs.
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