Friendship by Henry David Thoreau

I think awhile of Love, and while I think,
Love is to me a world,
Sole meat and sweetest drink,
And close connecting link
Tween heaven and earth.

I only know it is, not how or why,
My greatest happiness;
However hard I try,
Not if I were to die,
Can I explain.

I fain would ask my friend how it can be,
But when the time arrives,
Then Love is more lovely
Than anything to me,
And so I’m dumb.

For if the truth were known, Love cannot speak,
But only thinks and does;
Though surely out ’twill leak
Without the help of Greek,
Or any tongue.

A man may love the truth and practise it,
Beauty he may admire,
And goodness not omit,
As much as may befit
To reverence.

But only when these three together meet,
As they always incline,
And make one soul the seat,
And favorite retreat,
Of loveliness;

When under kindred shape, like loves and hates
And a kindred nature,
Proclaim us to be mates,
Exposed to equal fates
Eternally;

And each may other help, and service do,
Drawing Love’s bands more tight,
Service he ne’er shall rue
While one and one make two,
And two are one;

In such case only doth man fully prove
Fully as man can do,
What power there is in Love
His inmost soul to move
Resistlessly.

Two sturdy oaks I mean, which side by side,
Withstand the winter’s storm,
And spite of wind and tide,
Grow up the meadow’s pride,
For both are strong

Above they barely touch, but undermined
Down to their deepest source,
Admiring you shall find
Their roots are intertwined
Insep’rably.

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The Mirage Machine by Lord Bechard

“The Mirage Machine” is a poem by Rev Lord C.M. Bechard, and
is a multi part work that explores themes of imagination, the human mind, dreams, and reality

I Do Not Love You Except Because I Love You Poem by Pablo Neruda

I do not love you except because I love you;I go from loving to not loving you,From waiting to not waiting for youMy heart moves from cold to fire. I love you only because it's you the one I love;I hate you deeply, and hating youBend to you, and the measure of my...

New Year by Bei Dao

New Year By Bei Dao a child carrying flowers walks toward the new year a conductor tattooing darkness listens to the shortest pause hurry a lion into the cage of music hurry stone to masquerade as a recluse moving in parallel nights who's the visitor? when the days...

Aubade by Philip Larkin

Aubade By Philip Larkin I work all day, and get half-drunk at night.    Waking at four to soundless dark, I stare.    In time the curtain-edges will grow light.    Till then I see what’s really always there:    Unresting death, a whole day nearer now,    Making all...

Character of the Happy Warrior

Character of the Happy Warrior By William Wordsworth   Who is the happy Warrior? Who is he That every man in arms should wish to be? —It is the generous Spirit, who, when brought Among the tasks of real life, hath wrought Upon the plan that pleased his boyish thought:...

A Friend by Gillian Jones

A person who will listen and not condemn
Someone on whom you can depend
They will not flee when bad times are here
Instead they will be there to lend an ear
They will think of ways to make you smile
So you can be happy for a while
When times are good and happy there after
They will be there to share the laughter
Do not forget your friends at all
For they pick you up when you fall
Do not expect to just take and hold
Give friendship back, it is pure gold.

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What A Rose Can Say Poem by Margie Driver

A rose can say I love you and want you to be mine,A rose can say I thank you for being so very kind,A rose can say congratulations, whatever the occasion may be,A rose can say I miss you and wish you were here with me,A rose can say I'm sorry if I've hurt you in any...

Phenomenal Woman Poem by Maya Angelou

Pretty women wonder where my secret lies.I'm not cute or built to suit a fashion model's sizeBut when I start to tell them,They think I'm telling lies.I say,It's in the reach of my armsThe span of my hips,The stride of my step,The curl of my lips.I'm a...

Crusoe in England

Crusoe in England By Elizabeth Bishop A new volcano has erupted, the papers say, and last week I was reading    where some ship saw an island being born:    at first a breath of steam, ten miles away;    and then a black fleck—basalt, probably— rose in the mate’s...

I felt a Funeral, in my Brain

I felt a Funeral, in my Brain, And Mourners to and fro Kept treading - treading - till it seemed That Sense was breaking through - And when they all were seated, A Service, like a Drum - Kept beating - beating - till I thought My mind was going numb - And then I heard...

The Brain — is wider than the Sky

The Brain — is wider than the Sky —For — put them side by side —The one the other will containWith ease — and You — beside — The Brain is deeper than the sea —For — hold them — Blue to Blue —The one the other will absorb —As Sponges — Buckets — do — The Brain is just...

Sonnet 104: To me, fair friend, you never can be old

Sonnet 104: To me, fair friend, you never can be old

To me, fair friend, you never can be old,
For as you were when first your eye I eyed,
Such seems your beauty still. Three winters cold
Have from the forests shook three summers’ pride,
Three beauteous springs to yellow autumn turned
In process of the seasons have I seen,
Three April perfumes in three hot Junes burned,
Since first I saw you fresh, which yet are green.
Ah, yet doth beauty, like a dial-hand,
Steal from his figure, and no pace perceived;
So your sweet hue, which methinks still doth stand,
Hath motion, and mine eye may be deceived:
For fear of which, hear this, thou age unbred:
Ere you were born was beauty’s summer dead.

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Alone by Maya Angelou

Lying, thinking
Last night
How to find my soul a home
Where water is not thirsty
And bread loaf is not stone
I came up with one thing
And I don’t believe I’m wrong
That nobody,
But nobody
Can make it out here alone.

Alone, all alone
Nobody, but nobody
Can make it out here alone.

There are some millionaires
With money they can’t use
Their wives run round like banshees
Their children sing the blues
They’ve got expensive doctors
To cure their hearts of stone.
But nobody
No, nobody
Can make it out here alone.

Alone, all alone
Nobody, but nobody
Can make it out here alone.

Now if you listen closely
I’ll tell you what I know
Storm clouds are gathering
The wind is gonna blow
The race of man is suffering
And I can hear the moan,
’Cause nobody,
But nobody
Can make it out here alone.

Alone, all alone
Nobody, but nobody
Can make it out here alone.

About Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou was born Marguerite Johnson in St. Louis, Missouri, on April 4, 1928. She grew up in St. Louis and Stamps, Arkansas. She was an author, poet, historian, songwriter, playwright, dancer, stage and screen producer, director, performer, singer, and civil rights activist.

poetic flows podcast emeraldbookclub.org

Poetic Flows Podcast

Poetic Flows Podcast is a haven for poetry lovers and creative souls. Our mission is to weave together the beauty of poetry with the depth of human emotion, offering a unique auditory experience that inspires and uplifts. Join us every Monday night at 8pm GMT for live sessions that promise to stir your imagination and touch your heart.
Be Thankful

Be Thankful

Be Thankful Be thankful that you don’t already have everything you desire.If you did, what would there be to look forward to? Be thankful when you don’t know something,for it gives you the opportunity to learn. Be thankful for the difficult times.During those times...

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Love and Friendship by Emily Bronte

Love is like the wild rose-briar,
Friendship like the holly-tree—
The holly is dark when the rose-briar blooms
But which will bloom most constantly?
The wild rose-briar is sweet in spring,
Its summer blossoms scent the air;
Yet wait till winter comes again
And who will call the wild-briar fair?
Then scorn the silly rose-wreath now
And deck thee with the holly’s sheen,
That when December blights thy brow
He still may leave thy garland green.

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Coventry Book Extravaganza

Coventry Book Extravaganza

Experience the Coventry Book Extravaganza, where the magic of words in print take centre stage at The Belgrade Theatre this April.

  • Date: Saturday 15th November 2025 | 10.30am – 4pm
  • Location: Belgrade Square, Corporation St, Coventry CV1 1GS
  • Price: FREE

Brought to you by local vintage events company Rosie’s Retro Bazaar and independent publishing house, Fantom. Immerse yourself in the universe of books as they bring together a diverse range of stalls, including:

  • Independent Publishers & Bookshops: Discover unique publications and support local literary ventures.
  • Fresh Talent & Local Authors: Meet up-and-coming writers and explore their latest works.
  • Comic Creators & Illustrators: Delve into the world of graphic storytelling and visual artistry.
  • Literary Societies & Publishing Services: Connect with organisations shaping the literary landscape.
  • Second-Hand & Antiquarian Book Dealers: Hunt for rare finds and literary treasures.
  • Book Crafts: Anything from bookmarks to bookends and book inspired tote bags to repurposed old books. Artistic license to free your imagination!
  • Prints & Paper Ephemera: Vintage printed materials such as posters and maps.
  • Stationery & Accessories: Browse through a selection of writing essentials and literary-themed accessories.
  • Merchandise & Memorabilia.

Whether you’re seeking hidden gems, eager to support local talent, or simply looking to indulge your inner bookworm, the Coventry Book Extravaganza promises something special for every book lover. Don’t miss out on this captivating literary event—it’s a celebration of words, creativity, and community!

Cross Poem by Langston Hughes

Cross Poem by Langston Hughes

My old man's a white old manAnd my old mother's black.If ever I cursed my white old manI take my curses back.If ever I cursed my black old motherAnd wished she were in hell,I'm sorry for that evil wishAnd now I wish her wellMy old man died in a fine big house.My ma...

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Installation to mark the 85th anniversary of the Coventry Blitz

Installation to mark the 85th anniversary of the Coventry Blitz

A Major installation marking the 85th Blitz anniversary is heading to Coventry City Centre

A massive installation inspired by the iconic Cathedral Ruins is set to mark the 85th anniversary of the Blitz in Broadgate Coventry city Centre.

The  20 metre structure created by artist Olivier Grossetête, will “rise as a symbol of remembrance, resilience, and the extraordinary strength found in unity”, said Coventry City Council.

The structure which will be made of thousands of cardboard pieces was inspired by the ruins of the city’s cathedral after a 12-hour raid by German bombers on 14 November 1940 where 550 people were killed.

Cllr Abdul Salam Khan said the temporary landmark will serve as a symbol of remembrance, resilience, and the extraordinary power of unity that Coventry embodied during WWII

volunteers are needed to build the structure. Free workshops on the project will be held daily from Monday November 10 to the Saturday, and those taking part will be invited to help construct the artwork

Those who visit the temporary structure over the weekend can talk to the artist and creators of the piece, which will remain in Broadgate until 15:00 on Sunday 16 November.

Cross Poem by Langston Hughes

Cross Poem by Langston Hughes

My old man's a white old manAnd my old mother's black.If ever I cursed my white old manI take my curses back.If ever I cursed my black old motherAnd wished she were in hell,I'm sorry for that evil wishAnd now I wish her wellMy old man died in a fine big house.My ma...

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Coventry Remembrance Sunday Parade

Coventry Remembrance Sunday Parade

Coventry annual Remembrance Service and Parade will take place on Sunday 9 November, beginning at 10.45am, at The Cenotaph in the War Memorial Park.  

Remembrance Sunday Service and Parade | Coventry War Memorial Park

  • Date: Sunday 9th November 2025 | 11:00 – 13:00 
  • Location: War Memorial Park in Coventry

The city’s War Memorial Park plays host to the city’s annual remembrance event which takes place by the Cenotaph in the park.

The service will honour and pay respect to those who lost their lives in the 2 World Wars and other conflicts throughout the world and will be led by The Right Reverend Sarah Jelley, Bishop of Coventry and all are invited. 

The Lord Mayor of Coventry, Councillor Rachel Lancaster, who will take the salute, said: 

“The city’s annual Remembrance Day Service and Parade helps us remember, honour, and pay our respects to all those who have lost their lives due to wars or armed conflict.”    

“This service is always very important to the city and acts as a timely reminder for everyone as to why we continue to promote peace and reconciliation around the world and on this 85th Anniversary of the Coventry Blitz.”   

“As the numbers of people attending each year illustrates, we know how much the service in the War Memorial Park means to our residents and I’m sure this year’s’ service will be as well-attended as ever as we come together to mark the day.”  

Councillor Rachel Lancaster

Lord Mayor, Coventry City

The London Road Cemetery service on Sunday at 3pm, is also remembering those lost during the Coventry Blitz and the annual Poppy Drop is taking place in West Orchards Shopping Centre.

This year also marks the 85th anniversary of the Coventry Blitz which took place on 14 November 1940. The city will come together, organising a range of public events and activities to not only commemorate the lives lost, and damage done to the city, but also mark the resilience and spirt of Coventry people who came together to rebuild their city. 

Cross Poem by Langston Hughes

Cross Poem by Langston Hughes

My old man's a white old manAnd my old mother's black.If ever I cursed my white old manI take my curses back.If ever I cursed my black old motherAnd wished she were in hell,I'm sorry for that evil wishAnd now I wish her wellMy old man died in a fine big house.My ma...

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£2.4bn West Midlands transport Investment

£2.4bn West Midlands transport Investment

The £2.4 billion investment in transport for the West Midlands is a five-year funding package from the government, confirmed in June 2025, to improve the region’s transport network through a mix of bus, rail, tram, and road projects. The funding is intended to make journeys easier and more affordable across the region and is already supporting projects like the extension of the tram network to the new Sports Quarter in East Birmingham, which is expected to unlock billions in private investment. The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is also working with a top economist to ensure the funds are used effectively to benefit residents and the economy

Mayor Richard Parker conformed that people in every part of the West Midlands will benefit from the £2.4 billion transport fund.

The Mayor said he would now work hand in glove with the region’s seven metropolitan councils to set out the priority transport projects in their areas.

The Mayor said: “This is a huge investment in transport in our region – and it will make it easier and more affordable for everyone, from Coventry to the Black Country, to get to work, school, college, hospital or anywhere across the West Midlands. Millions of people rely on our transport network everyday and now, we are going to make sure it works for everyone.  

National Express Bus Coventry emeraldbookclub.org

Project Summary

Funding source: The £2.4 billion is a five-year funding package from the UK government, confirmed by Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

Purpose: To improve transport infrastructure across the entire West Midlands, making journeys easier and more affordable for everyone.

Projects: The funding will support a range of projects including rail, bus, tram, road, cycling, and walking schemes.

Initial projects: The first project to be funded is an extension of the tram network from Digbeth to the new Sports Quarter in Bordesley, East Birmingham.

Economic impact: This funding is expected to act as a catalyst for significant private investment, particularly in areas like the Sports Quarter regeneration, and is part of a larger plan to drive economic growth in the region.

Governance: The West Midlands Combined Authority is developing a plan for how to best spend the money, with an independent review underway to advise on project selection and delivery

 

Cross Poem by Langston Hughes

Cross Poem by Langston Hughes

My old man's a white old manAnd my old mother's black.If ever I cursed my white old manI take my curses back.If ever I cursed my black old motherAnd wished she were in hell,I'm sorry for that evil wishAnd now I wish her wellMy old man died in a fine big house.My ma...

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Coventry Blitz 85th anniversary

Coventry Blitz 85th anniversary

85th Anniversary of Coventry Blitz

Friday the 14th of November marks the 85th anniversary of the Coventry Blitz of 1940. This night saw devastation across Coventry and the destruction of the Cathedral Church of St. Michael.

If you’d like to learn more about the Coventry Blitz and the Cathedral, you can also pay visit to the Blitz Museum

As the city comes together to mark the 85th anniversary of the fateful night of 14 November 1940, a number of public events and activities have been organised around the anniversary.

The anniversary of the Blitz, also falls into Coventry’s annual Peace Festival, an annual month of events, activities and workshops where Coventry’s communities come together to promote the city as a City of Peace and Reconciliation. 

List of events

 

 

Stories Of peace

What if stories could bring people closer, heal divisions, and inspire hope?
This November, Emerald Book Club invites you to experience just that at Red House Park, Coventry, as part of the Coventry Peace Festival 2025.

Cross Poem by Langston Hughes

Cross Poem by Langston Hughes

My old man's a white old manAnd my old mother's black.If ever I cursed my white old manI take my curses back.If ever I cursed my black old motherAnd wished she were in hell,I'm sorry for that evil wishAnd now I wish her wellMy old man died in a fine big house.My ma...

read more