Light has been a symbol for a myriad of cultures over multiple centuries. It features as a symbol in art and religions and has a diverse range of meanings.
In the UK, the winter solstice (21 December) marks not only the darkest day, but also a change in nature’s cyclical rhythms. It’s the point at which, light, both natural and spiritual, can signify rebirth, hope, and renewal.
This poem, An Anthem for Winter, explores the dichotomy between light and darkness in the hope of light. In which ever form it takes.
An Anthem for Winter
The storm clouds unclenched their fists,
And in a summer breeze,
Hollyhocks waltzed again.
Chains of bird song and
Choirs of colour
Sang in his garden.
Campanula, blue as the sky,
Rang their bells
In praise of
The light.
At the old year’s midnight,
Beneath the Angel’s wings,
Deerhurst’s ancient tower rocked
To the ringing of bells.
Pealing away the
Veils of night
In worship of
The light.
“Ring the bells
That can still be rung…
There is a crack in everything.
That’s how the light gets in.”
So, let the bells ring.
The songs of spring
Must come again!
Envoi,
May Blackbirds,
Always sing
In your garden.
Martin Griffiths 2025
Comments? We want to hear them. Please write to editor@westenglandbylines.co.uk
