Watching TV with my mum over Christmas there was a programme on featuring some of the oldest buildings known in Scotland. Discussing them was Scottish comedian and historical tour guide Bruce Fummey, who is black; relevant, as when discussing old New Year traditions, he said he’d have been a very welcome visitor due to being so thanks to the tradition that the first person over the threshold once the New Year commenced should be of dark hue.
My grandfather—mum’s dad—was also from Scotland; my mum said she remembered this tradition from her childhood, which was in London (she being born there), predominately growing up in Dudley House, Paddington, the family having been lucky enough to be offered one of the council flats built in 1938. Continue reading
Sometimes it can he hard to write an introduction when the intention of the words below is that they speak for themselves.
When recently writing a post about three of the songs 
Two lovers part on bad terms with an agreement to meet in a year to see if they have a future. Both travel to the meeting on the London Underground, but one is delayed without any way of letting the other know.
Thoughts in consideration of the unusual ways the feeling of being isolated can make itself felt. 
Suffice 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.
An 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!
Very honoured to announce Royal Mail issuing a stamp to commemorate The Bath Party; it, quite appropriately, showing the image on the book’s cover.
Extremely saddened today to hear of the passing of Gianluca Vialli, aged 58.
Poetry based on true events.
N. P. Ryan 