Poem: ‘The con cometh’

The con cometh The demon smirks, having laid out her wares. Will they see what she’s doing? Will they realise how they’re being taken in? Not all will grasp how an influencer works. She hopes they won’t. Her power over them depends on her ability to cajole and deceive. She insinuates herself into their thoughts, … Read more

Poem: Maldon days

Maldon days hēt þā hyssa hwæne    hors forlǣtan, feorr āfȳsan,    and forð gangan, hicgan tō handum,    and tō hige gōdum. The Battle of Maldon (991 AD) Galvanized into action,   my companion horses neighed as they galloped to the woods,   riderless and rudderless. I turned back to my liege lord,   reluctant to retreat, … Read more

Poem: ‘No animals died’

No animals died Our research on toads and carabids considered predator and prey. Japanese toads and bombardier beetles were ‘introduced’, let’s say. The relationships were explosive – but complied with current laws. We intend to show you footage. Please, hold your applause. Our methodology? Each beetle placed in tongue’s reach of a toad. Each swallowed. … Read more