The latest in our ever-lengthening line of Poem of the Week comes from Jon Stainsby. His piece Peace, love and understanding have left the building is reproduced below for you to enjoy, along with his responses to our Q&A. Thanks, Jon, and all the very best with your writing from here on!

What got you into writing poetry?
A long time ago in the 1970s, I was listening to Marc Bolan and his group of the sixties, Tyrannosaurus Rex. He was writing songs and poetry of a Tolkeinesque fantasy world.  I was inspired, and started to write.  That's how it all started, I think. :)  
School and university got me into ever more poets and poems.  These spurred me on to write, and influenced me in my writing.

How long have you been writing?
Since the late 70s when I was 16/17.  I started at school and published my own little pamphlet of poetry while I was in sixth form.   I have been writing on and off since then, and really started again fully last year.

Do you go to any open-mic nights?
I haven't plucked up the courage to do this, yet.  I would like to do it, though.

What’s your favourite poet/poem?
I have no particular favourite poets.  Whoever crosses my path, really.   I love 'Do not go gentle into that good night' by Dylan Thomas, at the moment.  It inspires me to continue writing and to express myself.  
I read the poems on WOL every day and love it.  It is so wonderful to read,  feel and mull over the emotions and thoughts of so many people.   The support and encouragement of the poets on WOL is so wonderful and inspiring.

You're cast away on a desert island. What's your luxury?
My loves are music and words so, anything that allows me to enjoy both of these.

Peace, love and understanding have left the building
by Jon Stainsby

Thank you very much ladies and gentlemen
They’ve really enjoyed playing here over the years
It has been a wonderful experience for one and all
but now it is my sad duty to announce that
peace,  love and understanding have left the building.
 
Peace,  she left by the back door
Her sullen face only lightened by the thought
that it cannot always be this way
Wandering around between the ruins
of the past, present and future
weeping for a world seemingly
weary of compassion for itself.
 
Love,  she left by the side door
Despondent at the lack of empathy
Her heart in tatters looking for repair
in the furthest reaches of the globe
The wilderness will enfold her
and she will take respite
to return fuller and stronger.
 
Understanding,  she decided to just
use the front door bold as brass
Never a second hesitating
Straight into the street searching
for a ounce of forethought and
common sense amongst the
ignorant people aimlessly roaming.
 
Ladies and gentlemen
They will return
Please be patient
Please have faith
Please have hope
Thank you and good night.