Every now and then an idea or an experience cries out to be crystalised. Special occasions too sometimes need celebrating. For eighteen years, I wrote a poem for my god-daughter, Artemis, on her birthday. Now, I send something each year to my eldest son and his wife on the anniversary of their marriage. Some of these poems are included in this selection.

I like the discipline that writing poems imposes. Sound effects (rhyme, assonance and alliteration) have to be weighed against precision of meaning. The rhythm of each line needs to please the ear.

I like to make sense of things in the only way that poetry can. To write a poem is a process of distillation. When it comes right, there are few things as satisfying.

I remain in awe of consummate word-smiths. Here is a selection of my stuff.