Winter Walk
John Clare - 1793-1864
The holly bush, a sober lump of green,
Shines through the leafless shrubs all brown and grey,
And smiles at winter be it eer so keen
With all the leafy luxury of May.
And O it is delicious, when the day
In winter's loaded garment keenly blows
And turns her back on sudden falling snows,
To go where gravel pathways creep between
Arches of evergreen that scarce let through
A single feather of the driving storm;
And in the bitterest day that ever blew
The walk will find some places still and warm
Where dead leaves rustle sweet and give alarm
To little birds that flirt and start away.
A very happy New Year to you all! I hope 2023 brings peace, health and happiness.
New Year's Day hasn't brought a sudden fall of snow, but its cold and wet. Nevertheless, I intend to brave the elements and take a winter walk, and will no doubt choose the sheltered path through the woods where I will find some shining, smiling holly bushes.
John Clare struggled with mental health issues for most of his life, but knew the benefits of getting out into nature and taking a walk to lift the spirits. I hope you enjoy your first walk of 2023.
Writing prompts:
- Write about a time when being out in nature has lifted your spirits. Describe the scene and how you felt.
- How has your mental health been over this festive season? Set a timer for six minutes and write about it.
- What do you hope 2023 will bring you? Write for six minutes without stopping.
Lovely piece that Judith x
ReplyDelete