Dear LPG

In this month’s attempt to fulfil my self-made obligation to get the pensioners of Lewisham, and indeed the rest of the internet world thinking poetically, I offer a few thoughts that might resonate with us older folk; those who are more likely to have seen a few more of the after–effects of war.  

For my June offering, I have chosen something quite short but inspired by a recent holiday. Last summer I joined a ship at the top end of Norway and cruised down to Bergen over five days.  I am fascinated by the Arctic, having visited Greenland two years ago, and am booked to go to Svalbard this summer.

Looking out at the Norwegian landscape provoked the writings I offer for this month…

THE SAME COUNTRY.

It was seventy-five war ending years ago.

After occupation and enslavement

Lasting half a slow, terrible, decade.

Russian bombing signalled conflict completion.

A year later -  a good year -

The fishing, the crops all succeeded.

The Plan was settled. It promised

Relief, reconstruction, rehousing. 

The cost was terrible

Everyone must move south.

Remote northerners

Refugees in their own country.

Children then, elderly now

They recall dwelling in caves.

Scarcity of everything, without exception,

Before being allowed home.

Tucked away in the mind

But seldom discussed

Except on the National Day

When affinity with England is re-praised.

Now communities distantly far above

The Arctic Circle thrive again,

Notably self-reliant but now nationally supported.

Wise Norway envied throughout the planet.

Foster Murphy