SOLITUDE

As a non-driver, I walk or cycle whenever I can. Cycling is a wonderful and cheaply acquired freedom. I just wish I was more mechanically minded and could maintain my bike properly. It creaks and groans, pings with strained and rusty cables and parts. But these sounds are a comforting accompaniment to the late cycle home along the quieted roads and there's a freedom to look about you, take things in, think.


Cycling home last night, I looked up to see the moon as it lay on its back. Astronomers tell us this is a spring and autumn phenomenon in the northern hemisphere. Daffodils are about to bloom the length of the Stray, its hedges are budding green, but winter won't let go. The tenacious chill keeps everyone brittle, waiting for the sun, waiting for the real spring.




pip-pip