‘Sunshine In Your Pocket’ was an idea that came to me during the very early stages of lockdown. I felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of people who were losing their income, having work cancelled and having their lives turned upside down by something that there seemed to be no control over. Everyone was being affected in one way or another but I realised I needed to prioritise who I could help and how. I’m no good at things like running or baking so that ruled those out! But one thing I do enjoy doing is writing poetry. So, I decided to write a collection of light hearted poetry that was aimed to life spirits during these uncertain times.
I’ve always loved to write, whether it’s in the form of poetry or short stories. Two years ago, I put together a small poetry book to raise money for my friends granddaughter who was born with the life limiting condition spinal muscular atrophy. The books were handmade by myself and my cousin, which I then sold and delivered to family and friends. I raised £500 for her family that would help with physiotherapy sessions and days out for them.
This time round, my daughter (who’s also a writer) introduced me to Olcan publishers. Within just three weeks, the poems had been written, printed and published. Myself and the publishers agreed that 100% of the proceeds would go towards Equity Benevolent Fund who offer grants for those in need, working within the entertainment industry. My two children and various friends of mine work within the entertainment industry so I was instantly aware of how the pandemic was affecting their particular work prospects. Projects were cancelled, finances were diminishing and those of which who had children of their own found the situation extremely difficult to cope with. I have great respect and admiration for the entertainment industry and thanks to them, we’re able to escape a little with the help of TV, radio, live streaming of theatre – the list goes on!
I was concerned how self isolation would affect people’s well being and so I aimed to write a collection of poetry that consisted of comfort, humour, warmth and hope. I tried to focus on memories that would enable the reader to smile and lift their spirits. I thought about what makes me smile; sunshine, warmth, natures natural ability to carry on changing and reading a good book with a cup of tea by my side. Then the ideas started to evolve for each poem just from simply observing everyday situations that we all encounter. I wanted to bottle that ‘sunshine feeling’ and carry it in our pockets for whenever we needed to feel that warmth. And that’s when Sunshine In Your Pocket was born.
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You can buy ‘Sunshine In Your Pocket’ here.
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Extract from ‘Nothingness’:
Nothingness
I love the nothingness that fills the air
When a snowfall blankets sound
When technology is sleeping
There’s nothingness around
Nothingness is my favourite gentle noise
It soothes and calms the soul
It’s other half is the noise that hurts
That fragments you as a whole