Escaping with the Paddington Station Poet,

The Poetry of Resistance,

Photo by Tomek Baginski on Unsplash

Dear Courageous ,

I was having a cup of tea in Paddington Station before boarding my train for home. A man came to my table and introduced himself as a Station Poet and asked if I would like a poem ?

I of course said “ yes”,

“He asked on what theme ?”

I said escape as getting out of London was on my mind.

He then recited a long poem about Andy Murray, without notes, most impressive. I am not sure what it had to do with escape, but I loved the idea of this Poetic troubadour wondering the soulless chasm of the Station offering up poems to travellers. Out of all the people I watched him approach I was the only one who said yes to a poem. Yet he kept offering and I was very touched that this man is devoting his time , energy and talents to bring poetry to this unexpected place.

He is called. James Pendle Poet and you can follow him on Instagram, Facebook , BlueSky and YouTube

Based on this unexpected delight, I am choosing a poem about Escape for this week . This is dedicated to those who really do need to escape from the threats and suffering they are enduring. ❤️‍🩹

Then to give you a lift a short poem on Freedom, because you are holding all that is present now in your capable heart.

Your Escape by Robert Siney

Your Escape My perpetual pain carries its own aid,

Failing to disguise my angry shame.

And though the tears continue to flow,

Your courage cures my broken heart

We beat you up then cast you aside,

And we abused the privilege you gave to us.

When you smiled; we scorned,

When you cried; we rejoiced.

Your distress calls went unanswered,

You were left alone in the brutal wilderness, Yet you battled on through clouds of contempt,

It's too late to compliment your grace

We will carry on without you, Making the same mistakes,

Just to another delicate soul,

You're better off away from this cruelty.

The guilt is natural now, But it's eclipsed by the relief,

And though I miss you,

I know you earned this freedom.

Freedom by Olive Runner

Give me the long straight road before me,

A clear cold day with a nipping air,

Tall bare trees to run on beside me,

A heart that is light and free from care.

Then let me go !- I care not whither

My feet may lead, for my spirit shall be

Free as the brook that flows to the river,

Free as the river that flows to the sea.

Wishing you freedom of expression, freedom in your creativity and freedom in your life,

All sent with Love,