North or South?

You who prefer the north be not dismayed

That I to the fair realm where southside folk

Dwell in their farms and hamlets give my heart.

I am not blind to all the wealth displayed

In sandy beach and mountain glen, the cloak

Of rich embroidery that with simple art

The northside wears like some sweet bridal maid.

Nor do I stand unmoved where Orry spoke,

Claiming his kingdom like a god apart

Who sailed the stream the Milky Way had laid.

But that which draws me with compelling power

Is the bright shield that lies towards the south,

On which each vivid hue of field and flower

Smiles tenderly as a fond mother’s mouth.

 

Weekly Times     14.9.62