The Changing Face

To read the poems in this collection is to become acquainted with the poet himself. Just follow the threads of his personal journey through childhood memories, from the heartrending parting from his mother during the Second World War, to the troubled life of his father. Here he mixes memories of their lives with those of other family members and friends, old and young.

Some poems are there to simply entertain with the everyday themes of work, sport and relationships. And who can resist the delightful, humorous poems? But above all, the poet shares with us the inspiration he draws from the natural world. God reaches out to him through the sea, the birds and the sky. The renewal of life in nature brings a message of hope: 'Green buds appear saying, he is risen.' The 'changing face' is nothing to fear.

These poems, collected over fifty years, trace an erratic spiritual journey through various jobs, interests and experiences; from wartime evacuation, to settling in West London in the Seventies as a teacher and becoming a Christian.

Thanks to God, my wife, Val, and my family and friends.