Soaring with Clipped Wings

I haven't written very much poetry recently. I have, however, had the privilege of working with a very wonderful group of people to help them write what are, I think, some very beautiful poems. 

Most of them do not speak English as a first language, and most of them would not naturally describe themselves as poets. Despite these things their words are able to express the depths and heights of their human experience.

Earlier in the year, one of them exclaimed "we should publish this!" That exclamation stands as testament to their growing confidence, their sense of self-worth, and to their deepening understanding that they have a voice, one that others should hear.  

And so from that exclamation, came this book. This week, Refugee Week, the poetry book "Soaring with Clipped Wings", containing much of what we have written together over the past 18 months arrived. It is the fruit of lots of conversations, plenty of laughter, a few tears. Altogether 36 people from 22 different countries were in some way involved in writing it. 

I am delighted with it. More importantly, so are they. 

This video is one of the poems from the book: inspired by a poem of the same name by Maya Angelou,  written collaboratively and performed by some of the members of the group. 

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaI0mwQKAFY)

It would be remiss of me not to mention that the book is available for sale for £5 (plus p&p). 

First and foremost because we believe their words are beautiful and powerful and deserve an audience, but also as a fundraiser for the Stories of Hope and Home project. 

There is no easy online sales option, sorry, but you can order copies by sending an email to info@storiesofhome.org.uk