The Eternal Quest

A celebration of nature in poetry

'What a delight to read, absorb and enjoy.'
Christine Walkden, Plantswoman and Horticulturalist

This collection of 55 poems represents the first published work by the author, covering many diverse themes about the natural world, ...and reflecting its beauty, dynamics and transience, including human attraction and love.

Bumblebees

Under the hot August Sun
Ruling a cloudless sky,
Bumblebees, both big and small,
Fly from their nests
To the Lavender bush
Grown by a south-facing wall.
Here, upward the scented
Spikes they climb,
Clambering madly in the rush,
Or with a low-pitched hum,
Buzzing from flower to flower
As they eagerly gather
Nectar and pollen
Until fully loaded,
Their tiny brains are overcome
With the prime notion
To return home;
An ancient power
Driving them back, then forth -
They know not why -
Beyond the immediacy of their chores;
Round, furry, clockwork creatures
Working every daylight hour
For the common cause.
Never goaded.
A thing they do most willingly,
Without teachers,
Emotion,
Profit,
Or applause.

The Swan

Upon
Still waters
Fed
By the River Gade,
A pure white Swan -
Mute unless angry -
Glides gently
Along its course,
Once dipping
Near the bank
To pause
And see
If I possess
Bread
To give it.
Regrettably, I do not
And am hungry
Myself…
So we part quickly,
I, at least,
Having something
To thank
For this brief encounter;
A close view
Of perfection.

What the pros say...

'What a delight to read, absorb and enjoy. Written with a sensitivity that only years of careful observation bring, this book of poems uplifts and  renews a wonderment for nature.'
Christine Walkden, Plantswoman, Horticulturalist and TV personality

What our readers say...

The 'Bumblebee' poem is one of my all-time favourite poems.
Dr. Samantha Cook, Harpenden, Herts.