Mike Richardson

Biography

I have been writing Poetry since early teens. Recently started to perform and read it at Dead Good Poets, Liverpool. Brought up in Rural West Wales I was a teacher for most of my working life, teaching ages from 5-30+. Spent some time in London before Thatcher disbanded ILEA. I speak Swedish having spent some summers there working. Now I have launched out as a creative writer/consultant since finishing an eleven year stretch as a Senior Lecturer at one of Liverpool's Universities. I also enjoy Watercolour Painting and Artwork in general. I have one book published under the title of "Reluctant Icons and Sacred Spaces" available through Lulu publishing and Poetscode press.

Samples

Grey When I was nine A squirrel came into the yard unsure Stalked the shadows Climbed the tree The helicoptered sycamore “Grey” shouts my friend and off to fetch his dad, My brother came to see the fun And loved the little squirrel, so he said. Uncle Mel appeared cap and gun Stalking not the shadows but the grey, “Pest” he mutters “O.K. boss” he says Then loads the gun, signalling the dog My brother stands so still, quiet first, His mouth is shaping words that will not come. The crack of sound, The thump of body, My brother’s wail, an all clear siren And Uncle Mel, no remorse or pity Strong to bear the burdens of farm life, Unloads the gun, wipes his hands, goes home.

All poems are copyright of the originating author. Permission must be obtained before using or performing others' poems.