Settlers Ashore

Of European descent, from whence they came

Across the borders to settle, re-establishment

Angles, Saxons and Jutes – Anglo-Saxon be known

Conquered lands, such roads have served, that of the Roman Empire

Yet under attack, strong order we lack

Helpless – o’ kingdom cry

As legions left, nations wept

Our production has ceased

O’ Saxons – mercenaries be hired

Will you defend us now?

Picts trouble thee

From ‘worthlessness’, ‘choice nature’ reflect

Anglo warriors now stand abreast

Ruddy remains, Arthur’s battle in vain

Battle of Hastings, charge and maim

A legend’s defeat, as armies retreat to lands afore

O treasured finds, beneath the silt

Fragmented helmet, of skilled design

Corrosion abhor, yet to restore

Tarnished silverware, o’ iron rusts

For much gold lay, retained –unchanged

Grave goods of Sutton Hoo, barrow over thy ship

O’ King be laid?

With objects frayed

Unaware of whetstone wear – we honour thee!

Of features present, of features past

Churches of stone, post-hole home

Tis farming year, with ploughs we break

Prepare thy soil, crops shall thrive

Fatten thy cattle, raise thy calf

Barter thee, present ye half

Commence thy craft, thy potter’s clay

Of antler work and carpentry

Thee be skilled, our peoples free

Written by Geraldine Taylor ©