This poem is based upon the poem Long Distance II by Tony Harrison. At the time of writing this poem I was reading The Midnight Library by Matt Haig which explores the choices we make and the futures we create. I wanted to play with this idea of choices in the future especially for my husband Mark. The final two lines are inspired by an article my sister, Antonia, sent me about Mark Rylance and how he describes the loss of people he is close to – that the emptiness, like gaps in music are an essential part of the music and thus an essential part of his life.
September 2023 is Blood Cancer Awareness Month. It is also Child Cancer Awareness Month. Every day 10 children in the UK are diagnosed with cancer. Of those lucky enough to survive, many will have long-term side-effects that may significantly impact their lives forever.
I am posting one poem per day to recognise this and raise money for the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust. This charity provides sailing and other outdoor adventures for children and young people aged 8-24 who have been treated for cancer. But it’s more than that. There’s a package of support around this including siblings, return trips, volunteering opportunities and so on. The Trust also works hard to ensure their work is environmentally sustainable. You can make a donation HERE!
So beautiful Juliet. My love goes out to you all xxx
Sending much love to you and Mark especially! Your “Two Futures” parallel poem reminds us of the important role of friends & family networks in making bright futures a reality! Xxx