Tomorrow is the winter solstice, when the night is at its longest and the day at its shortest.
The late William Neill, who wrote in Scots, English, and Gaelic, offers a short but atmospheric reflection at this turning point in the year. (From Caledonian Cramboclink, Luath Press, £8.99.)
SOLSTICE WOOD
There is a spinney on the ridge
and I am certain
that it was always there.
When the winter solstice comes
and a red sphere falls behind trees,
I like to think
I am not entirely alone
but that other eyes, across time
are with me, and show the same pleasure
that this is the shortest day
as the druid wheel of the sun
rolls swiftly towards springtime.
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