I have a bundle of poems, songs, stories, folklore, and tunes that I pull out when winter comes. The ninth century Irish poem that begins: “I Have News for You” is the first I bring forth.
I have news for you
The stag bells, winter snows, summer is gone.
Wind high and cold, the sun low, short its course
The sea running high.
Deep red the bracken, its shape is lost
The wild goose has raised its accustomed cry
Cold has seized the birds’ wings
Season of ice
This is my news.— Anon.
In this video I perform the poem with my Triplett Luna bronze-wire strung harp. Look for more videos in the coming weeks in which I celebrate the coming of winter with harp, song, poetry, and maybe even a story.
What are your favorite poems, stories, songs for winter and the holiday season? Share them and any thoughts about the poem, or anything about the coming of winter in the comment box below!
This is lovely and haunting and taught me something important:
How to speak ie tell stories or recite poems while playing
Everything happens when we pause and create space for it
…
Very deep and interesting work from you- I am a nature poetry art and harp lover and your work resonates and inspires me from across the pond…. Former student one year at the redbricks
Thank you so much for sharing this- and your gorgeous harp intertwined with the elements
Hi Marcie, I’m so glad to “meet” you! I love what you write here: “Everything happens when we pause and create space for it.” That is so very true! And I’m constantly relearning this awareness. I took a peek at your website: you are offering amazing work, such as that with teens! Blessings to you in your own harp artistry and your work with harp and healing in the world.