Author: N. P. Ryan

Candy Nose Nothing

/ N. P. Ryan

glen-carrie-xBTnaTgleQE-unsplashSuffice to say I bought some sweets the other day. However, while the below might indeed be relatable, the truth is I currently do have a cold; something I’ve been bestowed with since about two weeks before Christmas.

This isn’t the same one; for a couple of days just after New Year I was cold free during which I made the mistake of mingling with others, and here I am now feeling like I’ve had a cold for six-weeks when they’re only meant to be a seven day thing.

The below is based on true events, while given the circumstances under which it occurred, is equally a statement of my desire to no longer be bunged-up or lost on the moor of mind fog that viruses give me; indeed, it’s highly likely I only think this poem is a good idea because of the cold. As ever, you the reader are judge, jury and executioner.   

With thanks to Glen Carrie for use of the header image. Continue reading →

Dear Ulf Dloc

/ N. P. Ryan

ulf dlocAn old acquaintance turned up unannounced. Despite being uninvited, and more so not welcome, they decided to stay. They’ve even gone so far as to continue hanging around regardless of numerous hints and even blunt and to the point statements asking them to go. I can’t wait to see the back of them, so hope this address in a public forum will finally drive the message home!

With thanks to Evan Philip for use of the header image.

Continue reading →

The Price of Stamps

/ N. P. Ryan

resizeVery honoured to announce Royal Mail issuing a stamp to commemorate The Bath Party; it, quite appropriately, showing the image on the book’s cover.

That’s how I like to see it; Royal Mail on the other and claims it part of a series of stamps issued 2020 in recognition of the Roman legacy still found in Britain.

However, Royal Mail does concede using it for the same reasons as I: from the temple pediment at the Bath Spa, it is the only known depiction of a male gorgon in the world. Continue reading →

Gianluca Vialli, R.I.P.

/ N. P. Ryan

Italia_vs_Brasile_-_Bologna_-_1989_-_Gianluca_Vialli_e_Ricardo_RochaExtremely saddened today to hear of the passing of Gianluca Vialli, aged 58.

During his illustrious career, Gianluca spent a couple of years at Chelsea. One game in particular sticks in my mind; though many of the reasons why are a bit bizarre.

It was a F.A. Cup match at Stamford Bridge on the 4th January, 1998; just two days over being 25 years to the day of writing this.

(Image shows Gianluca Vialli and Ricardo Rocha, Italy vs Brazil, 1989, licensing information here.)

Continue reading →