Don Pearson Poems

(For Lesley-Jane)

Do you remember a poem by Christina?
Your hair could still be from the other Rossetti.
...

(For Mel and all at the Whistle Stop, Teignmouth)

“Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair.”
...

(For Sylvette, who can see through the leaves)

This year, I longed for August and its crops.
As Spring approached, I watched the other trees,
...

(i)
As we lined up,
The others looked past me.
I was no threat,
...

The ribbon and the
Silver medal
Could not obscure
The heavy gold chain round his neck.
...

(For those in the cold darkness)

It was cold and
I had been out there
...

(For Eleanor and Suzanna)

Chalkie was as black as night,
Ginger bright as sun,
...

(For Liam O’Neill and in memory of my grandparents)

The poppy’s capsule oozes juice
That brings us sleep, helps ease our pain.
...

(for Suzanna)

I destroyed my books.
As I made my own footpath,
...

Once we lay together,
Making love or sleeping
Wrapped around one another,
Close-huddled like kittens,
...