I’m often attracted by the immediacy of poems by young children. This week’s poet, seven-year-old Anne Collis, has successfully captured her morning - through sound alone - and brought it to life for her readers.
Different voices assail us: the radio, the writer, Joseph. Even the letterbox and a set of keys seem to come to life, adding their sounds to the cheerful cacophony.
It’s always worth reminding writers - young and old - that when you shut your eyes and concentrate just on listening, there’s a new and amazing world out there.
Jo Shapcott
Anne Collis, aged 7, receives Fatso in a Red Suit by Matthew Sweeney (Faber). Submitted by Mrs M Pearson of English Martyrs’ RC Primary School, Rochester, Kent, who receives a set of Poetry Society posters with teachers’ notes. For Poetry Society events, ring 0171 240 2133.
Jo Shapcott is the Poetry Society’s poet on the Internet:http.wwwPoetrySoc.com
MORNING SOUNDS
“Katie ... A-anne” Radio switches on “Invicta FM” Letterbox tapping Joseph shouting Me brushing my teeth.
Keys tapping Brum, Brumm.
ANNE COLLIS
