A wintry scene as we move towards the close of the year. The short days can still be inspiring and envigorating with coast and countryside to enjoy.

Poem by Richard Maslen:
The Fig Tree

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Poem by Richard Maslen:
The Fig Tree

The Fig Tree

There is
Some Dionysian connection
Here beneath the tree.
Its leathery leaves
Late this year.
Large enough now
To cover Adam's endowment,
Eve's mounting embarrassment.
The green roughness
Raising awareness
Of new fleshly delights.
Skin abraded gently
And not without pleasure.

There is a coolness here.
Hard by the house,
A shadowed sussurus
Making no impression
On the bricks.

Planted close to the wall,
Its tap root
Deep in the sandy earth,
Probing the moisture
Held in some cistern,
Filled with rain
And occasional flooding
From the river.
Whose saltiness
Silvering the trunk,
Drops the fruit
Before their time.
Allowing us the shade
In lieu.

The presence of the God is here
Under the leaves' green beneficence
A cool umbra over us all,
As we lift the wine
On Summer evenings,
Before we drink
And know his scented breath.

Back to the Richard Maslen Poem List

Some Favourite Websites For November 2024:

Halesworth Millennium GreenThe largest Millennium Green in England

Halesworth Millennium Green is a magical place to explore in all seasons and weathers. Come and find your favourite corner amongst the meadows, woodlands, rivers, ponds, heathland, orchard and along the historic route of the old railway and the even older navigation.

Stoneware BirdsLife-sized handmade and unique British birds, now available to buy online.

A charming unique gift or a treat for oneself. See the website to know how each one is made. Now available to buy online. Each bird is an individual creation, varying in choice from the perky wren to the plump bullfinch together with other well-loved British birds. Which will you choose?

North Manor FarmhouseEnsuite B&B accommodation in beamed Suffolk farmhouse close to the Suffolk coast and Southwold

Two B&B rooms, both with en-suite. Guest lounge with open fire. Discount for stay exceeding three nights. Sorry, dogs not accepted.

The Southwold Railway TrustOpen days at the Southwold Railway Steamworks project

The Southwold Railway was a 3-foot gauge line running between Halesworth and Southwold, a distance of almost 9 miles. Opened in 1879 and closed in 1929, it is remembered for its tall-chimneyed steam engines. The Steamworks project aims to restore this line.

Hare Lodge Self CateringTwo expansive but affordable pet friendly Self Catering

Two New England-style barn conversions at Hare Lodge in Peasenhall. Tastefully decorated with relaxation in mind and a comfortable sitting room, country kitchen and downstairs shower room.