John Sauven

John Sauven.

Ealing, London his place of birth

ambitious, keen to show his worth.

Cardiff Uni an economics degree

though pursuing changes environmentally.

Greenpeace communications he starts to climb

then Executive Director he'd reached his prime.

Pesticides and bees he had a win

the EU ruling in favour of him.

Massive factory trawlers he's after now

undermining this sacred cow.

Senegal revoked their licences

local fishermen are a back in biz.

Australians halted their trot

collective action stopped the lot.

Indonesian rainforests have been saved

some paper firms stopped their trade.

Zero deforestation the target now

stop companies buying their produce somehow.

Carry on John your doing great

make common sense collate.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtAf2w-z_oQ

Birds

When I was young sky's were full

Skylarks, House Martins plenty-full.

What an amazing delightful sight

Swifts, Swallows in full flight.

The dynamic Swifts I remember well

together though a little pell mell.

Flocks of them owned the sky

superb aeronautics flying high.

Only once I found one out

this superstar of flight in doubt.

In rough grass a beaten thing

short of leg, long on wing.

It looked a very sorrowful sight,

this was much to my delight.

A chance to get close to him

in my hand not on the wing.

Mute, with nothing to say,

docile on the day.

I released him, let him fly

before long a speck in the sky.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rd3NlfbA7yQ

Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs.

Beatrix Potters little pet

Tiggywinkle, affection you can bet,

Once worshipped as a God

later hunted by the mob.

In Ancient Egypt great esteem

every persons life long dream.

Hibernation, apparently dead

then rise again from it's bed.

Gypsies often boil and roast

cars flatten coast to coast.

Badgers often catch and eat

the Hedgehog can't compete.

A varied colour scheme

albinos have been seen.

Pale gold just a few

pure white ones too.

Hedgehog diet, beetles, bugs

earthworms it simply loves.

Common spider better watch out

when Tiggywinkle's about.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMVWPvhFrpw

Back biting Richard

Richard the usurper

I don't like this usurping man
for me he’s just an also-ran.
His brother Edward, the King,
gave young Richard everything.

Land in Yorkshire, Gloucester too,
power and wealth he did accrue.
When Edward died suddenly
Richard acted wantonly.

‘My brother’s a b-stard his children too’
the boys now Richard did pursue.
Lord Protector his new role
public opinion he did not console.

The boys installed then in the Tower
whilst Richard planned their final hour.
Hastings, elder boy’s coronation man,
came to the Tower to reveal the plan.

Richard screamed ‘off with his head’
in a couple of minutes Hastings dead.
The boys disappeared without a trace
no order given to search the place.

Two hundred years later, bodies found,
foot of White Tower their burial ground.
No wonder Richard ordered no search,
fearing removal from his lofty perch.

At Bosworth his army refused to fight
while many a Norfolk man took flight.
For Richard a suicidal charge downhill.
For Henry's men an easy kill.

Jobee

Froch v Groves

Froch v Groves. Posted: Fri Jun 15, 2012 2:25 pm

Carl Froch (born on 2 July 1977. Colwick.Nottingham. Current IBF Super Middleweight Champion. ----------------------------- An early start to the boxing scene, just 9 and learning discipline, routine, two ABA titles he later won , big time boxing had begun. World amateur bronze was his,. turning professional after this, 26 Pro fights without defeat, Mikkel Kessler he then would meet. Crafty Kessler won this fight, the best man on the night, Andre Ward did the same, was Froch losing his game? Lucian Bute, Froch met next, the title Froch quickly annexed, in round 5 Bute stayed down, Froch was back with the crown. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74yA4C5GIkI

Errol Garner

Errol Garner

1923- 1977.

Wrote Misty.

---

Pittsburgh Pennsylvania man

adhering to his own plan.

A musical loner then

successful time and again.

Misty I remember well

not really in rebel.

A nice pleasant thing

a musical imagining.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_tAU3GM9XI

Jackie Evancho

Jackie Evancho

Violin, piano, sewing, swimming, pets

it's about as good as it gets.

Then she sings like a dream

after playing with pets, ice cream.

No nerves on the screen

a realistic daydream.

Only just in her teens

so fragile it seems.

Lets hope the dragons care

don't drive her to despair.

Don't overload with work

money, money, berserk.

Let her sing when she says

not just when it pays.

La Boheme, Madam Butterfly

in my minds eye.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bzSfx2IKafs

Have a nice day

Its  probable a myth.
This Christmas celebrate reason.
Be reasonable, be good, be safe.
--------------
Did you notice baby's face,
trying hard at table grace,
Spitting out, wondering why,
nothing goes in mouth or eye.
Did you notice startled eyes,
when poppers pop, trailers fly,
Christmas lights blink, flash,
new found toys whirl, crash.
Did you notice Grandma's care,
trying to catch baby’s stare,
Making faces, sucking lips,
twiddling fingers, making quips.
Then tapping Grandpa on the knee,
"Watch that drink! I’m telling thee,
just one more, that’s enough,
I’ve seen you on that malted stuff".
Then more kids come hustling in,
what a ruckus, what a din,
Don't stand up you'll lose your seat,
your ageing limbs cannot compete.
Youths and girlfriends then appear,
showing off their flashy gear,
Drinks all round, giggles too,
last nights sipping starts anew.
The smell of cooking fills the air,
tables laid with special care,
Paper hats, tinsel too,
take your turn, join the queue.
Eating done, tables cleared,
then some faces disappeared,
Pulling crackers, what’s in this?
give a tug, make your wish.
"That's my toy don't you dare"
a little friction in the air,
Children squabble then settle down.
taking note of fathers frown.
Just a glance of Christmas day,
cheers to all I hope and pray.
The new year brings to everyone,
the well sung words of Lennon’s song.
Give peace a chance
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=gUbqVvcGz-E

Paula

I thought of you again today,
did you host some small soiree?
I feel you are amongst your friends,
unless of course my mind transcends.


Occasionally I get like this,
the precincts of my mind dismiss,
any thoughts that you are down,
tears be-get that puzzled frown.

I think of all the lovely things,
meeting you, warm feelings,
Northampton town on our first date,
how cool you looked, so sedate.

The library another day,
how simple was that T.M.A,
when you ask me to assist,
a gesture I could not resist.

That classy two piece suit you wore,
not anybodies paramour,
lovely tussled flaxen hair,
aloof, remote, debonair.

My eyes beheld a wondrous sight,
to me you felt exactly right,
this ambience of country life,
rustical, free of strife.

O well I've got my mind back now,
I don’t think you will mind somehow,
my sincerity when I say,
I thought of you again today.




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CwEpOzW6-k

Ambushed

Taliban find some trouble
amongst the rocks and rubble.
An ambush in mind I think,
this time failing to hoodwink.

Two US gunships spot the platoon,
night vision lights the gloom.
Laser beams and rays,
a lot different to my days.

http://www.liveleak.com/ll_embed?f=f213b73d647e

Donald O'Conner

Donald O’Connor. Nineteen twenty five the year nothing very much to cheer. The great depression in full swing baby Donald entrancing. Two stars of vaudeville his parents till they met with tragic events. A daughter killed aged seven father died from reactive depression. Mother struggled from city to city then Donald became a child prodigy. Paramount Pictures spotted him easily passing their screen prelim. Sing you Sinners the films name as Crosby's brother a claim to fame. With B movies he carried on then Adolph Hitler came along. After war it's A movie time Singing in the Rain his prime. A gold award for Make 'Em Laugh thousands want his autograph. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SND3v0i9uhE

Gok Wan

Gok Wan.

Chinese and English parents

Both Leicester residents.

Gok born in seventy four

a tiny tot much cared for.

The youngest one of three

loved and spoiled accordingly.

Food was love, seemingly

he piled on weight increasingly.

Bullying that's for sure

gay and father a restaurateur.

Twenty one stone what a mess

something had to be done,yes.

Dieting his next game

in nine months a slimmer frame.

Depression thoughts of suicide

then rising from his downside.

A reinvented Gok

no longer one to mock.

TV and the fashion game

cooking and national fame.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49Ww5mVioNU

Pro Patria

Pro Patria.
In far off lands, out of sight,
men still fight for what is right,
give their lives to sought things out,
lose their limbs, writhe, shout.
Called up men were forced to fight,
to bite the bullet not take flight,
glad to see that call ups gone,
but spiteful wars still drag on.
Those called up lads are old, some gone,
some nerves still shattered by shell, bomb,
the fist of government we did our best,
still no medal clasps our chest.
Britain’s small wars are ignored,
as long as government is assured,
men will face the gun, die!
no one hears their widows cry.
For many years we have asked,
some small medal you give at last,
so as our children and theirs too,
know their kin fought good, true....jobee
El Gamil Club Aldershot.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4NtSqZcT_4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&v=73eB-aAo8Eg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHh8isGtB6w&NR=1

Ruggerro Leoncavello

Ruggero Leoncavello.

Mid nineteenth century his birth

a famous taurean for what it's worth.

Naples a southern Italian city

vibrant bussling with activity.

His fathera judge, respectable

socially acceptable.

Comfortable childhood without strife

a relaxed quality of life.

At Naples conservatory musically qualified

teaching talents quickly applied.

Liberettist talents came to the fore

Pagliacci, La Boheme et-cetera the score.

Then his career really began

Pagliacci a huge hit in Milan.

The Clowns had made his name

and the operatic hall of fame.

cut and paste

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-kbi1EMcD3E

Fred Astaire

Fred Astaire.
1899- 1987 Calif.
.....
Omaha Nabraska he first saw light
studio executive gave him a fright.
Cant sing, cant act, can dance a little
other critics fickle.
An effortless dance style
amazingly versatile.
Obviously doing his own thing
dancing in for a fresh spring.
Once seen never forgotten
I could watch time and again.
No masculine quality or anything
on stage commanding everything.


click left arrow

[url]http://vimeo.com/6971656[/url]


cut and paste

Gene Kelly

Gene Kelly

1912-1996.

....

A Pittsburgh, Pennysylvania man

one of five life began.

Mother took him dance classes

called a sissy by lads and lasses.

Gene and brother packed it in

to young to take it on the chin.

Aged fifteen he tried again

pressed for money began to train.

Dance routines with brother Fred

winning contest kept them fed,

Gene enrolled at Pittsburgh University

passing tests with great diversity

Dance and economics qualified

with dance he became preoccupied.

Actor, dancer, producer, director

singer and unique choreographer.

cut and paste

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmCpOKtN8ME

Albert Bierstadt

Albert Bierstadt
Germany 1830-1902 New York,
..
German born, Americanised young
for many years remained unsung.
Back to Dusseldorf as a young man
studying earnestly he began.
Four years later back to the states
teaching art with associates.
Success at the academy, a landscape
at last his carreer taking shape.
Technical proficiancy made his name,
one great painting fame.
Rocky Mountain, Landers Peak
radically distinctive, unique.
Grandeur and pristine beauty
a prize by the French duly.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
on a wall, set apart.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=332lt-srv5s

Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi

India1869- 1948 India.

--

Trained in law at Londons inner temple

character controversial but gentle.

Pre-eminent leader of Indian nationalism

South Africa his civil rights babtism.

Employing non violent disobedience

avoiding a capital offence.

Eventually back to Indian shores

disembling British tax laws.

Most Muslims support British rule

favoring the parochial school.

Gandhi's religious pluralism

not enjoying favouritism.

Self rule, independence achieved.

In forty seven the British relieved.

The Raj and its demise

enjoyed by most British eyes.

Dont bite off more than you can chew

though religious pluralism is my view.

I think Gandhi was just great

He's my particular au fait.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=34jm36ZloOA

The Wild Beasts.

The wild beasts.




1905 a new wave exploded

Derain, Matisse, Vlaminck led.

The Wild Beasts they were called

Les Fauves the French bawled.




Reeking of rebellion anarchy,

night mare, hoax, insanity.

So the critics ranted on

at the Salon d'Automne.





Not wholly favourable then

all, in the lions den.

Pictorial aberrations, bad jokes

here is what they saw folks.




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joGZ7IT6ayo

Religion and tax.

Religion and tax.




Religion this ancient police force

no longer a tour de force.

The EU has banned creationism

European theocracies isolationism.




The days of heaven and hell are gone

but Popes and Bishops still dwell on.

Coventry Cathedral eight pounds in,

Westminster Cathedral holy chagrin.




I wonder what Jesus would say

about this capitalistic display.

Isn't it time they paid some tax

a few frocked ones got the axe.




Twenty six Bishops in The Lords

what for these awards?

Many pensioners are taxed

their working days relapsed.




British Governments be fair

don't just sit and stare.

Cuts and gather tax

for centuries you've been lax.







http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwU8QeW4ofU

Lou Reed

Lou Reed.
1942- 2013.
--
His place of birth New York City,
musically, avant-garde hippie.
Proto punk a tag that fits,
underground, few major hits.

Jewish of bisexual genre
a lifelong contra.
Musician, singer, songwriter
photographer, producer.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYEC4TZsy-Y

Jack Vettriano

Jack Vettriano
--
Nineteen fifty one year of birth
very much down to earth.
Breazy seaside town Methil, Fife
a miners cottage, poverty rife.

Delivering papers, milk,
customers often bilk.
Windows cleaned potatoes picked
his father quite stricked.

Half the money his father took
not much for Jacks bank book.
Watercolours a girlfriend brought
painting, Jack self taught.

Jack copying Monet's poppy field
artistic talent revealed.
Portfolio rejected at art university
a little more adversity.

At the Royal Scottish Academy
two paintings sold with alacrity.
This Scottish talent on his way
his paintings somewhat risqué.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zyr4CPWa_4Q

Sir Peter Markham Scott

1909-1989.
--
I'd have to say his father failed
Admundson of Norway hailed.
His final twelve years of life
ending paying the ultimate price.
Peter Scott was only two
losing a father he never knew.
A sound education he began
conservation his game plan.
Olympic yachtsman in his prime
skipper, the Americas cup one-time.
A painter of some repute,
the DSC for valour absolute.
The founding chairman of WWF
with Rockefeller, hold your breath.
A successful television program
a great communications man.
Wildlife and Wetlands trust
Slimbridge in Gloucester a must.
A rounded and full life
relatively free of strife.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hpEAuZzZZx8

Sophia Gengembre Anderson

.
1823-1903.
--
French born British artist
loosely associated pre-raphaelitist.
It wouldn’t be loose if left to me
one of the best in this genre.
Revolution in France in forty eight
Louis Phillippe would abdicate.
Sophia’s family leaving France
in Ohio America taking their chance.
In America she marries a British man
a lifelong marriage began.  
Steady work in portraiture
then both began a zig zag tour.
London, New York, London, Capri
Cornwall England finally.
They both died in the same year
for artists and friends many a tear.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCxmBbpM0kU

Jean Antoine Watteau

The sun King on the throne
ultimately ruling alone.
Extravagant splendour prevailed
a transformed Palace of Versailles.
Later Watteau was born
on one October morn.
The sun King tiring now
playing the sacred cow.
His formal Baroque style
Watteau began to refile.
To stiff and upper crust
loosen it up he must.
So Watteau created rococo
revitalised the status quo.
Jocular florid and graceful
theatrical, witty and playful.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eIGJjTyOGR8

Jacek Yurka

Lets look at Polish art
Jacek Yerka for a start.
Both parents qualified
nothing artistic disqualified.
As a child he didn't run wild
indoors with pencil paper beguiled.
He didn't like playing outdoors
show off's, bullies, bores.
At the academy of fine art
a rather troubled start.
Not eschewing to detailed realism
preferring imaginative surrealism
Favouring Bosch, Bruegal and Eyck
realists could get on their bike.
World fantasy award best artist
a modern day adventurist.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yrMKY3EFJOQ

William Holman Hunt

William Holman Hunt.

-

London brings another talent

though at first not apparent.

Hunts father a warehouse man

a clerk, hunts career began.





A trier he believed in work

he didn't avoid or shirk.

Several menial jobs at first

but art his real thirst.





Earning extra with portraiture

with fellow artists good rapport

He makes the R and A at last

and there the die is cast .





They form the Pre-Raphaelites

artistic reality with moral heights.

Throughout his life he stays the same

art verity and fidelity his aim.




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y7GsK8wRjLM

J.A. Grimshaw

Born in Leeds this talented man
eighteen thirty six his life began.
No formal lessons in art
with still life's a start.
Little is known of his private life
a cousin he took for his wife.
Experiments with a loose technique
classical paintings good critique.
Moonlight, lamplight, his real game
chiaroscuro, shadows and fame.
A little underrated to this day
a favourite of mine he'll stay.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsj0nTL_kPs

The silent ones

The silent ones.

Past silent Bishops in the Lords

men went to war drawing swords,

They trespassed on foreign soil

plunder, rob, strip, despoil.

The same today, silent still

When Blair's Government urged to kill.

Military men, land, sea, and air

Blair arrogant, arbitrary, doctrinaire.

Still Iraq in a mess

sectarian divisive distress.

At least Saddam was secular

independent and irregular.

What do silent Bishops do

just pray and join the wages queue?

Cuts indeed and quick about

lets have the frocked ones out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NktsxucDvNI

Winter

Joined: Sun Sep 25, 2011 12:44 pm Posts: 411

Winters the resting season, but slowed down energy goes on, plenty is alive and ticking, including the Bramblings song. Leaf mold goes on, twigs, branches, strewn around, hark the Robins song, the Hedgehog sleeps sound. The ground froze with winters chill, trees struggle for water, dehydration avoided with fall, first the Chestnut stripped bare. The Oak defiant hanging on, in the warmth of the litter bed, invertibrates practice decay, fungal threads returning chemical energy. Adaption, change, going on, bare trees host the Squirrels drey, Squirrels home, most of the day, in dead logs insects play. At night a cold haunting moon, bright, then gloom, chilly, no pity, dawn then, a Squirrel leaves it's drey, Along a branch and back for warmth. Snow starts to fall, a blustery wind calls, tiny icicles glisten, cold, still, a Blackbird pecks the ground flutters away, so starts another winters day. jobee http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PIG35GzbhJg http://www.whosdatedwho.com/tpx_6220/va ... px_1232991

A great man has died

General Vo Nguyen Giap

General Giap.
Who defeated the French at Dien Bien phu
and forced a political defeat on combined
forces in the Vietnam War
In fairness to the combined forces [largely American]
they won every major land battle that was fought
in the Vietnam War including the Tet Offensive.
They were indeed military victorious but lost the
political initative.
--------------------
General Giap is over100 years old and doing just fine.
A small village in North Vietnam,
Is where the Great Generals life began,
In village huts with muck packed floors,
The French commanded, made the laws.
An Xa village was quite unknown,
For hundreds of years rice was grown,
Goats, animals, moved around,
Muck, dung covered the ground.
But young Giap wasn't the same,
Inside his head was an excellent brain,
He didn't like the French in command,
It wasn't their culture it wasn't their land.
Off to Hoa to school he went,
On intellectual progress he was bent,
At just 13 his nationalist mind,
Was causing trouble a mature kind.
This precocious child the French noticed,
The Surete added him to their list,
Not knowing then he would bid them adieu,
At the battle of Dien Bien Phu.
A degree in economics he would attain,
His countries freedom his earnest aim,
Military tactics he studied with zeal,
The intelligence to master, turn for real.
At Dien Bien Phu he made his name,
A place in government he did attain,
With Directive 15, the North made its claim,
Unification was their ultimate aim.
So General Giap was placed in command,
The mandate, to unite and free his land,
Political adventure the stuff of dreams,
Only unification, by military means.

All through the sixties the battle raged.
To setpiece battle the North rarely engaged,
A guerilla campaign Giap wanted and got,
Time was irrelevant in his little plot.
But time was important on the American scene,
American dead on the TV screen,
After Tet they knew it was lost,
Giap had won at enormous cost,
Vietnam is free as ever its been,
Whether its better remains to be seen,
The best laid plans of mice and men,
They did put humpty together again.
jobee
The great man has died
[url="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTxrq_Erw-k"]Vietnam - Rolling Thunder - YouTube[/url]

[url="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UdGZ-5VcZQ"]Vietnam Fall of Saigon - YouTube[/url]

dionne warwick

Dionne Warwick





Dionne lets find a cave

let me be your slave.

I'll hunt rabbits everyday

plant seeds, cut hay.





Winter time we'll be warm

even in that snow storm.

I'll work hard with skins and things

warmth, isolation, all it brings.





Just one song everyday

through winter until may

then Its rest for you my dear

your everything I want to hear.





http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hN5CDdwY1UU

Caravan

Caravan

Starting as The Wild Flowers

with unusual musical powers.

A sort of psychedelic fairy land

John Peels favourite band.





Pye Hastings leads the group

guitarist-vocalist of the troupe.

Creators of the Canterbury scene,

live, Ive never seen.





Failing the charts with 'Caravan'

the search for fame began.

With 'The Land of Grey and Pink'

they found the missing link.





Great success on the European scene

Germans, French, very keen.

Still going strong today

giving an impressive array.





http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G61UV0U0APc



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i7zcOlnEoR

Richard Ashcroft

Richard Ashcroft





Close to Wigan pier

begins his first year.

Football his first choice

then found his singing voice.





Forms a group called Verve

begins his singing oeuvre.

Playing psychedelic music

it seemed to do the trick.





His Urban Hymns a success

making great progress.

The Drugs Don't Work

defining this young Turk.





Singer-songwriter musician

a man with great ambition.

As a singles solo artist

receives a platinum disc.





http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ToQ0n3itoII

Richard 'rick' Astley

Richard 'rick' Astley





In Newton -Le-Willows life began

his father a market-garden man.

At ten singing in the local choir

turning seventeen a real live wire.





Driving by day drumming at night

fame, fortune, not yet in sight.

With FBI wins local competitions

Pete Waterman for London auditions.





Never Gonna Give You Up the song

after that could do no wrong.

Out selling every singer in the world

a great talent unfurled.





http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQw4w9WgXcQ

Little Richard

Little Richard, b 1932.
---
A Georgia boy or girl maybe
sexuality a mystery.

Sex encounters with both as a teen
free living, wild, in between.

Father a Deacon, moonshine seller
a short tempered kind of fella.

Kicked Richard out aged thirteen
shot dead when Richard nineteen.

With Tutti Frutti he let the world know
they were in for the lords mayors show.

Good Golly Miss Molly, Long Tall Sally
enthusiastic crowds at every rally.

Still around at eighty years
out living most contemporaries.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCYGNtyktlg

Richard111, his marriage illegal.

Richard had a clause inserted in the marriage contract which stated that he would continue to enjoy his wife's estates even if the marriage ended in divorce (more likely an annulment). This was a distinct possibility since without the papal dispensation (Anne and Richard were cousins), the marriage was technically illegal. Anne Neville, Professor Michael Hicks. Edited by Alison Weir. ISBN O 7524 3663 5 Michael Hicks (born 1948) is an English historian, specialising on the history of late medieval England, in particular the Wars of the Roses. Hicks studied with C. A. J. Armstrong and Charles Ross while a student at the University of Bristol. He is today Professor of Medieval History at the University of Winchester, Head of Winchester's History Department,[1] and a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society.[2]

Henry V11

Henry V11

He'd been out of the country twelve years

at Milford Haven greeted with cheers.

Lancastrian Plantagenet makes his claim

forcing a battle to get his domain.

Amazing victory over Richard the Third

enormous power transferred.

The usurpers body slung on a horse,

loud cheering, no verbal discourse.

Henry a very shrewd King

centralising everything.

Bringing power to the throne

no private armies of their own.

Middle classes given more power

the magnates past their finest hour.

To much squabbling at the top

heavy fines this would stop.

His strength from the common classes

sick of feudal nobility clashes.

Centralising the courts of law

right to appeal the crown oversaw.

His reign lasted twenty four years

the countries budget not in arrears.

Finest King the country ever had,

hardly mentioned, makes me sad.

Not the last Plantagenet King

Not the last Plantagenet King.
---
I wouldn't mind having a bet
he wasn't the last Plantagenet.
King, Duke or pretender
Henry was the same gender.

Out of the country for ten years
hated by his cognate peer's.
The Yorkist's knew he was kindred too,
not needing a judicial review.

Two Plantagenets at Bosworth field.
Richard the one to capitulate, yield.
A much larger army on the day.
The Stanley brothers refused the frey.

Norfolk's men cut and run.
Northumberlands men soon undone.
Not much choice for Richard then
It would have to be the lions den.

The country had made its claim
former loyalists watched him slain.
May be the ghosts of two young boys
looked down on the noise, with poise.

[url="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74ul7XeQgwg"]The Death of King Richard III, from "Richard III" (1955) - Laurence Olivier - YouTube[/url]

Richard the usurper

Richard the usurper. I don't like this usurping man for me just an also ran. His brother Edward the King gave young Richard everything. Land in Yorkshire, Gloucester too much wealth he did accrue. Then Edward died suddenly, Richard acted wantonly. “My brother a bastard his children too” the boys Richard did pursue. Lord Protector his new role public opinion he did not console. The boys installed in The Tower whilst Richard planned their zero hour. Lord Hastings, the elder boys coronation man came to The Tower to unveil his plan. Richard screamed ”off with his head” in a couple of minutes Hastings dead. The boys disappeared without trace no order given to search the place. Nearly two hundred years the bodies found the base of the White Tower their burial ground. No wonder Richard ordered no search instant removal from his perch. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXEOAFiO ... creen&NR=1
Top

Displa

Kirby Muxloe Castle.

Kirby Muxloe Castle.

I spent hours playing there as a child

hide and seek, much beguiled

We built a raft at the rear

crossed the moat to commandeer.

School holidays were the best

blood hill on its crest.

A stones throw from the castle

in the evening we'd do battle.

Cowboys and Indians the usual start

not that you could tell apart.

Catapults, mud balls ammunition

load up and take position.

“At them when they cross the moat

keep firing sink their boat”

No one ever really won

by crikey, it was good fun.

Sometimes I went alone

around the moat I'd roam.

Water hens at the base of reeds

buntings flutter in the breeze.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4_noq_oGFY

Kirby Castle was the home of Lord Hastings.

Richard 111 executed him without trial.

Rutland Water

Rutland Water . The damming of the River Gwash above Empingham, hogwash. Nineteen seventy the scheme passed uproar, but the die is cast. One settlement completely destroyed Nether Hambleton null and void. Parts of Hambleton still remain Hambleton Peninsula by name. The scheme finished in seventy six soon a magnet for day trips. The largest reservoir in Europe leisure potential, great scope. Olympic sailing team train there well wishers stand and stare. Stocked with brown and rainbow trout something to do, day in day out. Cycling, walking, picnic sites chill out on balmy nights. Accommodation at your request I came back satisfied, refreshed. . http://www.discover-rutland.co.uk/
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Water Lilies

Those far of lands in ancient times when they worshipped gods, all kinds long dry watercourses filled with rain the sacred lotus bloomed again. An Egyptian symbol of eternal life giving hope when disease was rife personified, adored, controlling light a hiding place for Ra at night. Made more mysterious by their routine all morning flowers remain unseen their beauty revealed around noon a lovely sight on a sunny afternoon. As evening approaches they close again and sink into their watery domain on overcast days not showing at all without sun a cheerless pall. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksWyGRm7oNg

Michael Lington

Michael Lington.

Nineteen sixty nine his year of birth

Copenhagen got it's tuppence worth.

A talented grandfather, jazz pioneer

Otto Lington a successful career.

Young Michael heads for the states

never in dire straits.

Significant U.S. and international fame

thus ensuring the family name.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RfY_yIIUjho

Rob Hefferan

Rob Hefferan
b1968.
Realism
--
Rainy Manchester he first saw light
up against it right from the start
rebuked by parents and teachers alike
one art teacher sensed a talent in art.
This teacher his one beacon of hope
his dinosaur drawings not just aimless
with  guidance the boy could cope
the local art school he began to impress.
An uncanny knack for skin tones
realism and awareness
lovely smooth boned ancones
naivety, beauty, fabric, dress.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Flo1JOjRrzI

Hello Stranger

Hello Stranger. Posted: Mon Jul 29, 2013 3:50 pm

Joined: Sun Sep 25, 2011 12:44 pm Posts: 376

I thought of you again today, did you host some small soiree? I feel you are amongst your friends, unless of course my mind transcends. Occasionally I get like this, the precincts of my mind dismiss, any thoughts that you are down, tears beget that puzzled frown. I think of all the lovely things, meeting you, warm feelings, Northampton town on our first date, how cool you looked, so sedate. The library another day, how simple was that T.M.A, when you ask me to assist, a gesture I could not resist. That classy two piece suit you wore, not anybodies paramour, lovely tussled flaxen hair, aloof, remote, debonair. My eyes beheld a wonderous sight, to me you felt exactly right, this ambience of country life, rustical, free of strife. O well I've got my mind back now, I don’t think you will mind somehow, my sincerity when I say, I thought of you again today. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVYHSi3HQNg John b

Major General Walsh

Major General Michael Walsh CB CBE DSO.
Harrogate 1927-

My Company Commander, Cyprus, Suez.
Then a Major.
-----
A modest start to military things
a rifleman in the Royal Kings.
The Rifles an old regiment
no doubt his time well spent.

A commission then Yugoslavia bound,
Trieste a complex battle ground.
Then teaching handling weapons
in Cyprus giving me lessons.

Some rough ground with targets popping up
my first time, what a cock up.
What patience, that's what I found
he never talked you down.

Always comfortable with command
I bet in great demand.
Strait, not one of those Jekyll and Hyde's
and innate talent besides.

clik on painting to enlarge

http://www.bbc.co.uk/arts/yourpainti...1927-cb-135266

Paul Crook

Paul Edwin Crook. CBE DOS MA.

Surrey 1915- 2004

My commanding officer. Suez and Cyprus.

I saw him several time of course

in Cyprus and the Suez wars.

A veteran of world war two

a professional soldier through and through.

In education a little better than me

he gained a bachelor of arts degree.

I can't remember passing anything

just getting a medal in the boxing ring.

At Suez his officers were great

let me just collate.

I'm in a Valetta plane

my very first military campaign.

I'm sweating, a little nervous too

it could be me bidding life adieu.

The green light, I jump

I get a huge adrenalin pump.

The slipstream, a heavenly ride

I cool down, I can decide.

Tracers, smoke, the control tower ablaze

suddenly it's halcyon days.

Officers standing tall,

nothing to worry about at all.

I'll tell you one thing Paul,

if you go to war give me a call.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEC2iu3umE

Augustus John

Augustus John.
Tenby 1878-1961 Hampshire.
Post-impressionist.
--
In a rather gloomy home he starts life,
father sulking over the death of his wife.
His dead mother taught the basics of art
a fundamental jump start.
Father warned “ never go out on market days
gypsies about looking for strays”.
A local artist gives further lessons
Augustus soaking up these sessions.
Finally, the Slade School of art
the countries best taking part.
Then going Bohemian drinking heavily
his best work produced eventually.
Founding Chelsea Art School
regarded as the nations jewel.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdSmbVWBaD4

Laura Knight

Dame Laura Knight. DBA, RA.

Derbyshire 1877 London 1970.

Impressionist.

Not really an auspicious start,

though mother introducing art.

Father died when Laura was young,

money tight, mother hamstrung.

Mother teaching art locally,

well regarded allegorically.

Earning enough to send Laura to France,

for Laura a very short arrivance .

At the Nottingham School of Art

Laura a fresh start.

There she met her husband to be

they lived in artistic harmony.

An official war artist in world war two

royal grace and favour she did accrue.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wp3uEfGtHS0

The Osprey

The Osprey.

An unusual bird that occurs world wide,

Nova Scotia's national pride.

A raptor, meaning to take by force,

if mating fails they will divorce.

Their primary food source vertebrates,

nesting grounds near estuaries, lakes.

The quality and place of the males nest,

female ospreys choose the best.

Rutland Water in Leicestershire

a gazebo and belvedere.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nA3LtXnNIto

Freshwater fish

Dark shapes below water silently cruising about All's fair in this silent world no need to scream, shout. A sinking fly, a silver flash, for the trout a tasty snack. Camouflage called counter shading prevents the sneak attack. Powerful muscles propel and steer with thrashing tail and fins. The lateral line along the body picks up vibrations and things. Roach, Gudgeon, Rudd, Perch and Bream, but the one I think supreme. The Brown Trout my personal like, I hold in great esteem. I true fighter when hooked and sheer delight when cooked. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9DZC_xcMqI

John Denver

John Denver.
New Mexico 1943 – 1997 California.
Musician, singer, songwriter, record producer.
Activist, actor.
--
Denver's father a famous man
a record breaker no also ran.
An air force officer in their hall of fame
three world speed records made his name.
The family moved from place to place
Denver feeling alone, displaced.
Grandma gave him an acoustic guitar
the sound of which would make him a star.
Architecture studies in college years
Denver dropped out, bored to tears.
With various groups he tried his hand
eventually finding his promised land.
Abandoning band life he stood alone
a courages move and stepping stone.
He authored, Leaving On a Jet Plane
bringing Peter, Paul and Mary fame.
His recording Rocky Mountain High
causing a hue and cry.
The first of many climbing the charts
building a fan club, capturing hearts.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yPCI7D-lWNk

A debut success

Six weeks at the top of the
UK singles chart.
For the unknown group Procol
Harum, a great start.
On the American scene as well
the record nears the top.
Both sides of the Atlantic
the juke box plays non-stop.
Sixty seven the year, this haunting
sound first heard.
Very little promotion costs
were needed or incurred.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mb3iPP-tHdA

Iris Grace Halmshaw

Iris Grace Halmshaw.
Market Harborough.
Leicestershire.
------

A fascinating three year old
whatever will unfold?
A precocious natural talent
autistic, silent, content.

http://autism-light.blogspot.co.uk/2013 ... mshaw.html

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article ... world.html

Winter / Christmas

Winters the resting season,
but slowed down energy goes on,
plenty is alive and ticking.
including the Brambling's song.




Leaf mould goes on
twigs, branches, strewn around,
hark the Robins song,
the Hedgehog sleeps sound.

The ground froze with winters chill,
trees struggle for water,
dehydration avoided with fall,
first the Chestnut stripped bare.

The Oak defiant hanging on,
in the warmth of the litter bed,
invertebrates practice decay.
fungal threads returning chemical energy.

Adoption, change, going on,
bare trees host the Squirrels drey.
Squirrels, home, most of the day.
in dead logs insects play.

At night a cold, haunting moon.
bright, then gloom, chilly, no pity.
dawn then, a Squirrel leaves it's drey,
Along a branch and back, for warmth.

Snow starts to fall, a blustery wind calls,
tiny icicles glisten, cold, still,
a Blackbird pecks the ground, flutters away,
so starts another winters day.

Jobee




[url="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUbqVvcGz-E"]Van Morrison - Precious Time - YouTube[/url][/

November

November

Rather gloomy month weather-wise

everything on the retreat.

Birds flock together forming roosts

for warmth and heat.

Predators while away the daylight

hours waiting in the roosts.

The returning juicy innocents

give their hunger a boost.

Many woodland birds fall

to weasels and stoats.

They climb to great heights

then attack neck or throats.

In my happy school days

November was a treat.

For the biggest bonfire

the estate would compete.

Weeks before the fifth

collecting timber starts

Nicking wood off other piles

to better our counterparts.

Staying awake all hours to watch

for revenge attacks.

Cometh the great night

and everyone relaxed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hFWKAoMyGow

October

October

The first breath of autumn
greens begin to fade.
Deprived of chlorophyll
a very colourful brocade.

With any luck at all
an Indian summer calls
St Luke's little summer
autumn frosts stall.

A late harvesting chance
grate fully accepted.
The summer very brief
surplus harvest collected.

Ash, walnut, sycamore
yellow to the fore.
Copper beech and maple
red the décor.

Bracket fungi perennials
getting bigger every year.
The host tree eventually
will rot and disappear.

If the weathers right
and the sun is not to shy.
A blaze of brilliant colours
will overwhelm your eye.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsCdlX-5UjE

Desiduous Trees

All deciduous trees obey the fall

survival the call

root systems struggle for water

wood tissue will dry and die

the vast leaf area must go

out with the lord mayors show

self pruning commence

branches crash down

leaves find the ground

evaporation slows

the tree stripped and resting

destined.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLr1oWjIC44

September

Many shades of summer still
just hints of winters chill.
A time when country lore
predicts the weather in store.

Claiming wild life foretells clues
exploring several avenues.
If acorns fall before Septembers whole
winter pierces body and soul.

Ants build their nests high rise
from this we can surmise.
Winter will be long, severe
a lengthy wait for springs good cheer.

Not to be taken seriously
best adjudged superstitiously.
These ancient tales of great contrast
reflecting conditions past.

You may hear a cracking sound
as rending timber crashes down.
Beaches,elms,oaks shed first
the fall because of thirst.

For many biennials it's dying time
it ends their two year prime.
The honeysuckle may flower through
though mild frosts could ensue.

With most plants on the wane
the ivy takes the rein.
Bursting confidently into flower
becoming natures superpower.

Every insect left alive
form a teeming hive.
Ivy nectar attracts them all
hosting a veracious ball.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z7pAhNumuvo

Edward Elgar

Edward Elgar

English

Broadheath 1857-1934Worcester

Composer.

Father owned a musical shop

musical instruments explored.

A catholic in a protestant world

frowned on, ignored.

Self taught in musical composition

not a learned patrician.

Even with success, sensitive

of his low hereditary position.

Composing from pre teen age

though success came late.

The Enigma Variations

so emerged a great.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUgoBb8m1eE

Eric Clapton

Eric Clapton.

1945-Surrey. UK

I could never get my head around him

he never seem to do anything.

Accolades far and wide

he always seemed cut and dried.

He seemed to know everyone

of that there's nothing wrong.

I never wanted to pay to view

this schizophrenic brew.

The royal nod and all that jazz

exiting razzmatazz.

This little performance wasn't bad

For me that's all he had.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NaMuBX4aMmw

Peter Kay

Peter Kay

Stand up,television, film.

Lancashire 1973-

-------

Observational funny man

enjoying a keen attention span.

Here he is mishearing things

listen to the joy it brings.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uv2fVaHSISw&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Attack!

In 1956 British parachute troops
and French Foreign legion Paratroops
attacked Port Said in Egypt.
I took part in that attack.
Suez, that first day.

Bonfire night 1956

Eleven years after world war two,
airborne troops were ask anew,
parachuting down on Egyption sand,
Major Walsh plays his hand.

With Pte.Eccles marking the spot,
control falls to the Majors plot,
two platoon with Coates in command,
attack a pillbox as was planned.

Clements fires a bazooka shot,
Egyption soldiers lose the plot,
hands up and out they show their face,
Binnsy marches them back to base.

Major Stevens and B coy’s men,
fall amidst a snipers den,
badly wounded in the hand,
the Major stays and keeps command.

Then they attack the sewage farm,
Cpl.Woods fall, causes alarm,
with Maj.Stevens wounded again,
Captain Beale takes the rein.

C coy.attack the cemetary then,
Major Norman and his men,
call and get air support,
to halt the danger snipers thwart.

Pte Beech with bren in hand,
dispatches a soldier in the sand,
the Egyption's bazooka failed to fire,
soldiers remember to attach that wire.

To Hms. Albion, we send good cheer,
for sending us those crates of beer,
Hms.Bulwark played their part,
to quench our thirst then depart.

Waiting for commando men,
C coy. took the cemetary then,
advanced still further to the flats,
henceforth stopping sniper attacks.

B.coy. then moved into the flats,
C.coy.then the barracks attacked,
the barracks fell with great success,
C.coy. occupied the officers mess.

A military success draws to a close.
but lets not forget those we opposed,
men on both sides were very brave,
in Britains small wars heroes are made.

Jobee.A coy.3 para.group [primary source]

My Commanding officer-Lt Colonel P.Crook[deceased]

My company commander Major 'mike' Walsh.

Later, Lt.General Mike Walsh.
j

[To the patriots, the living and those we left behind]
None shall sleep



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idxShlatp_c

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEC2iu3umEk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qA1jXG1IVRU



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rY_Cium2ioI













1

Van Morrison

Van Morrison

Belfast 1945-

Singer-musician.

At school Morrison not achieving

preferred lessons on sax and music reading.

At twelve his first group-The Sputniks

learning his musical bag of tricks.

Other groups came and went

Morrison ad libs at their event.

Two songs stayed in my mind

Morrison, true, refined.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFF1wJN75Z0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFF1wJN75Z0