As the UK went into Coronavirus lockdown over the past few days this poem by Thomas Hardy kept coming into my mind. So I thought I’d read it for you and talk about how I think it speaks to us at a time like this.
You should be able to play the recording in the SoundCloud player above, but if not you can find it on SoundCloud here.
I hope you enjoy the poem and that you stay safe until the crisis passes.
The Darkling Thrush
By Thomas Hardy
Mark – thankyou so much for sharing! I frequently listen to your podcasts – your soothing voice and inspirational words – and this is one of the best. Not only does it take me back to my school days when I first heard this poem, but it is also a reminder of last Thursday when, staring out on a silent, cold, dark evening … there was a sudden burst of clapping and cheering as my town, along with the rest of the UK, celebrated and showed their gratitude for those carers on the frontline (we even had fireworks)! The feeling of unity and hope at that time is definitely echoed in that little thrush’s song.
Thank you Tracey. I hadn’t made the connection with the clapping for the NHS, but you’re right, it’s a similar feeling.
Thank you, Mark. Your voice brought the calmness to me.
My pleasure Joan, I’m glad it resonated for you.
Wonderfully read and dissected. Ironically It is not the land that is in peril (it is in fact healing from our lack of activity) but our shrunken experience of it and the loneliness of being apart. Today it felt like you were the thrush who burst into song!
Thank you, I’ll take that compliment. 🙂