Thank you to everyone who has submitted Lockdown poems. Hosted by Chloe Garner. These poems were written during Lockdown and the Coronavirus pandemic, at a time when it seemed the whole country, and in fact the whole world was going through the same crisis. I am aware, as many people are, that for people and places in the world, the challenges are huge and sometimes extremely harrowing, compared to my own.
Nonetheless, in reading these poems, I find reflections on, and insight into, my own experiences. As well as differences. Other ways of thinking about, or seeing, what is happening in this present time.
I have found these poems extremely resonant, and I hope you will too. Some sail on ocean liners In comfort, style, and ease Relaxing on their balconies β¦. For the next relentless fight. Some drift around upon their raftsβ¦. Could you throw them a life belt? Or a paddle or an oar?
Perhaps you could help guide them A bit nearer to the shore. Recordings of these are included with the following contributions where we have them. Someone will be offended No matter what I do. And help wipe snotty noses Or do I see my lover? For candlelight and roses. And have some nights of passion. And not think of myself. Am I a granny dutiful? On whom they can depend Am I a selfish lover? Or a dedicated friend? Oh Boris! When I was at school we used Pencils and blackboard and jotters, Now things are virtual, But you can still catch a virus From coughing and snotters.
Some of us are falling out With siblings, Dads, and Mothers Some of us are reaching out And looking after others. Some of us have footpaths To cycle, walk, and jog Some of us have nowhere nice To even walk the dog. Some of us are welcoming New babies being born Some of us have lost loved ones And cannot truly mourn. All of us can choose to spend Our days in fear and dreadβ¦.. BUT All of us can choose to plan For better days ahead. Love, health and food and drink.
