Poems and Pyrotechnics


I have to admit it, Shropshire in November is not a hive of activity. Sure there is the theatre at Oakengates and cinemas in Telford, Shrewsbury and the other towns, and there are always the shops to provide distractions, but in November what Shropshire offers is itself. Raw and natural the beauty of this county takes on a harsh and sometimes magical quality as the county settles in for the winter. Can you imagine anything more comforting than sitting by a log fire in a traditional English pub after an invigorating day walking on windswept hills. You can achieve this idyll in Ludlow or Bishops Castle or Shrewsbury and without the hordes of tourists. These great towns are all the more attractive to wander through, even if the weather can be unpredictable. If you want the great outdoors then come to Shropshire -- but be prepared for the weather and the great food and drink that your hosts will be happy to provide.

Check out my links to accommodation and towns in Shropshire

http://www.suite101.com/links.cfm/shrops...

Bonfire Night 5th November

In November, the UK celebrates the failure of the "Gunpowder Plot" with bonfires and fireworks. For those who do not know what all this is about or the history behind the fireworks why not take a look at the site listed below

http://www.bonefire.org/guy/gunpowder.php

This is an informative site providing a good starting point for anyone interested in this historical plot to blow up Parliament.

If you want to take part in this traditional celebration, then why not visit one of the many organized displays. Below I have provided details of two of the most spectacular. Weston Park Bonfire and Firework Spectacular 2nd November

http://www.weston-park.com/

Family Fireworks Extravaganza at Blist Hill 1st November

http://www.virtual-shropshire.co.uk/news...

This site gives details of the event and links to the Blist Hill site for more information.

Philip Larkin

On December 2 it will be the 18th anniversary of Larkin's death. A shy man, who turned down Poet Laureate because of ill health, his place among the great poets of the 20th Century was established with the publication of "The Less Deceived" in October 1955. His connection with Shropshire, and Wellington in particular, stems from the time in 1943 when he worked as a librarian in the Wellington Library. The town is proud of its association with such a major literary figure and there is a street, Larkin Way, named after him.

For those interested in finding out more about this gifted poet, and let's not forget fine jazz critic, the sites below will provide a good starting point.

The copyright of the article Poems and Pyrotechnics in Shropshire is owned by John Neill. Permission to republish Poems and Pyrotechnics in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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