A common man marvels at uncommon things. A wise man marvels at the commonplace. CONFUCIUS

Tuesday 17 April 2012

For Susan


Think of what our Nation stands for,
Books from Boots' and country lanes,
Free speech, free passes, class distinction,
Democracy and proper drains ...


JOHN BETJEMAN In Westminster Abbey

6 comments:

The Weaver of Grass said...

I really think Betjamen hits the nail on the head sometimes - as he does here Robert.

Susan Scheid said...

Now, I am assuming that the photograph you've chosen is one of those proper drains, but you must tell me if I've got that wrong. It's a wonderful photo, and of course I love what Betjamen chooses to make his poetic point!

Goat said...

That really is a superb-looking section of drain. Is it brand new, or has it recently been scrubbed clean?

The Solitary Walker said...

Thanks Pat, Susan and Goat.

The photo is of the real thing, l'objet réel. A length of new drain now extends from the back door to the brick shed. It does look rather fine, doesn't it? The grey cobbles next to it will border the whole patio. At present irregularly shaped, limestone-yellow slabs are being laid at a very slight angle on a bed on stone hardcore and sand/cement. After rain the water should run off into these drains.

Dominic Rivron said...

I never knew Boots' used to sell books. Now I do. How things change.

Think of what our Nation stands for,
Books from Amazon and motorways,
Free speech, free markets, unpaid taxes...
John Betjeman? Those were the days!

The Solitary Walker said...

Think of what our Nation stands for,
Lager louts and oven chips,
Baked beans, black sausage, sliced white bread
And kinky sex and Walnut Whips ...

Oh, you've got me going here, Dominic!

Any more stanzas, anyone?