For some reason, that I can't fathom out, thoughts of you popped into my head this week. Ever since, I have been compelled to find out more about you.
I was astounded to discover that we have trodden the same pathways - yours in what was a rural country setting and mine in the 'developed' Enfield in the County of Middlesex. Enfield Town train station now dominates the site where you boarded at John Clarke's school. I have walked along Church Street in Edmonton where you lived for a time with your grandmother. In the same street, the poet and essayist Charles Lamb and his sister lived at Bay cottage 13 years after your death. Imagine that! Two famous poets living in the same street!
You had such a troubled life peppered with tragedy and never knew the delights of marriage or a family of your own. Maybe your trials and tribulations gave you a deep insight and connection with nature that was a catalyst for your soul touching poetry. Separated by the Centuries, I feel we are united by the seasons. Your autumn is my autumn and I feel you close by as I read To Autumn, which in my opinion, is your most beautiful poem.
Next time I walk through the streets of Enfield and feel the whistling wind and listen to the crunch of leaves underfoot, I will think of you and wish for your guiding spirit.
Yours sincerely,
Simone Whipp
