Sharps In May

(folklore and all that)

In May watch hedgerows come alive

as hawthorn waves, enticing white,

a welcome sight in lonely lanes.

Yet should you venture close to touch,

be warned of thorns whose sharps attack.

Once blood is drawn, you'll soon turn back.

No pleasing fragrance greets your nose

as musky, pungence lingers there,

decay and plague in warm spring air.

And dare you use the blooms in rooms

beware your fate our folklore states

as pestilence brings doom and gloom.

Since ancient times, hedgerows defined

the boundaries of owners fields.

When twentieth century brought neglect,

and hedgerows suffered sad decline,

new laws were sought and now prevail

to keep our country ways in check.

Reviews

[John Alexander McFadyen]

A whimsical and sweet reflection on nature and the hedge with some history thrown in. A lovely flowing structured piece. I often had to waffle amongs the Hawthorn to get to sloe [blackthorn] bushes. The cuts were worth the effort when the sloe gin was ready!

[Chris Shaw]

Ah sloe gin, those sharps would have been a small price to pay. Thank you John, for yet another thoughtful review. If I didn't say good morning to you before, I'll say it now.

Chris

[John Alexander McFadyen]

Aye being up at 05:00, mornings are long here in the semi countryside lol!

[AYVID N]

Such a fascinating poem on hedges. They must be very useful in the past as fences with those sharp thorns and pungent scent. Interesting that we don’t keep the flowers in our living rooms for fear of doom. Sad, they’re falling into neglect. Every living species on earth deserves to be preserved. A beautifully rendered and captivating poem Chris.

[Chris Shaw]

A bit of history and folklore here DIVYA. Much truth though in the fact that the hedgerows do preserve many species, that might otherwise have gone. Thank you so much for considering these words and commenting on them. Greatly appreciated as always.

Chris

[AYVID N]

It was my pleasure dear Chris.

[Ted Kniffen]

I like this description, Chris. You've put a clear picture together, complete with scents and history and folk tales. Hedgerows are not something we see in Canada, but I have seen photos and such, they appear to be rather formidable. Still, I think a hedgerow is preferable to fences, at least they are blooming.

A good one.

[Chris Shaw]

Many thanks Ted. Hedgerows are a rich source of natural life. We are poorer without them. They are of course much easier on the eye than fences. Pleased for your visit.

Chris

[jacob erin-cilberto]

hedgerows...borders, keeping owners' fields separated, keeping people separated...today there is call for more borders to keep people apart...
and even without physical borders, we make emotional and mental ones as we push others away...so much separation of heart.
j.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Jacob for your thoughts which I found interesting. The disappearing hedgerows had a huge effect on the natural environment and wild life. That is why, in some places in the UK they are being encouraged again. To protect local wildlife.

Chris