One of our supporters, Peter Relph, shared a poem he wrote inspired by Epping Forest. We are delighted to share it with you, too.
Escape
Escape from cursed pandemic
From promoted concerns and fears
The media drums repeat message,
Creats growht in psychotic tears.
So escape is the rationale –
To our forest, so green and clean.
The breeze is fresh and from the north
And destroys the virus obscene.
I tread the track, corss cricket ground,
On the summit of Buckhurst Hill
The woods surround me, a safe cloak,
Early flowers present a thrill.
A bank of blue forget-me nots;
Blossoms white pain cherry tree
Aside the well-trod forest ride;
Its pollen lures lone bumble bee.
Crossed Manor Road to fields that were
Now pleasant mix of thickets-glade.
One deer, half-hidden in the trees,
Rabbits survive, crop grassy blade.
A busy magpie ignores me,
Searches for food on lawn-like plain.
Has young to feed in nearby nest
Senses prey; ponced yet again.
Warren Hill – anthills and heath,
Visit in autumn for heather feast.
Venerable oaks are sentinels –
Witness to history – the process unceased.
Then down hillside to The Warren
A flower-studded and green sward.
Primroses, violets and celandines,
Present a show, deserves award.
From The Warren alongside fields
Bordering Loughton’s Nursery Road.
Cattle are grazing – now rare sight –
As I stand in yew-trees abode.
Nearing town across The Stubbles
I hear at last a voice awaited
A chiff-chaff, a little late,
Has arrived, sings unabated.
So ends a pleasurable mouch around
Better than isolating indoors.
My plea to all my dear readers –
Explore! Explore our great out-doors!
Hope you enjoy reading this poem. If you too feel inspired by the beautiful Epping Forest and have a creative writing piece to share, please email us at: admin@efht.org.uk.