Thanks to everyone who read, commented and liked The Close. I never intended to make it so lengthy and revisited it loads of times to edit and chop it down a bit.

I almost didn't put it on because of it's length but it's done now anyway. Cheers again everyone for taking the time out to read it.

Jon

Comment is about The Close (blog)

Original item by Jon Darby

What I love about this poem is the unashamed length. So often we rail against being too long or overwordy in the fear of perceived self-indulgence, both from the poet and his/her peers.
No such guilt on show here, oh no!
It's brilliant it's original it's long and all the better for it.
Thanks for being brave JBD, I would love to be in the audience for this one with a big bag of crisps and a sparkling water.

Well done my m8

Comment is about The Close (blog)

Original item by Jon Darby

Great childhood recollections, I think most people would be able to recognise the characters in this piece.
Loved reading it, thanks for sharing.
Paul ?

Comment is about The Close (blog)

Original item by Jon Darby

Amazing work, all life is here, all the characters that make up a village, a community, an estate.
Recognised many of them, especially Mrs Ashall and Francesca.

Hannah

Comment is about The Close (blog)

Original item by Jon Darby

A tale sweetly told.

Comment is about The Close (blog)

Original item by Jon Darby

Really enjoyed reading this - it almost makes me feel like I remember all these things myself. I love pictures you paint with your words in this poem.

Comment is about The Close (blog)

Original item by Jon Darby

Jon, you have surpassed yourself again with such a passion for the nostalgia of your youth. Its detail takes the reader back to his or her roots and helps us to re live those days; to be reminded of those long forgotten characters who were our friends and neighbours. Your attention to detail reveals an exceptional memory. Yet what comes off this page is an account of a happy and secure childhood. Thank you for this remarkable poem which enlivened my imagination and brought back those near halcyon days. Keith

Comment is about The Close (blog)

Original item by Jon Darby

Wow, that is quite a tale and a good snapshot of a neighborhood with all its characters and details that may be overlooked by someone just passing by.

Comment is about The Close (blog)

Original item by Jon Darby