Author Archives: Marie Sheard

The story of Mrs Phule and Fatima Sheikh

Posted on 7 March 2023 by Marie Sheard

Savitribai Phule, Fatima Sheikh Even an ordinary person in India today would probably not know those names. So you are forgiven for wondering: who are they? They were 2 phenomenal women, One Hindu, a Dalit, that is an untouchable, the … Continue reading →

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Ode to my last suitcase

Posted on 10 November 2020 by Marie Sheard

You sit in the cupboard wondering whether retirement has truly come. Your black has faded to grey, scratched and battered, Tattooed with airport security and hotel reception stickers. You accompanied me on my many adventures To India, China and many … Continue reading →

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By the Ganges

Posted on 5 October 2020 by Marie Sheard

The priest sits on the edge of the water His saffron robe wrapped around him against the chill of dawn. He waits for the sunrise to wash the sky with orange. He murmurs his mantra, his amber eyes fixed on … Continue reading →

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Small Pleasures At Dawn

Posted on 30 September 2020 by Marie Sheard

I like to wake up at dawn, watch as the lilac skies fade and the blackbirds feed on the lawn. With curtains widely drawn, smelling the air fresh with silent dew, I like to wake up at dawn. I may … Continue reading →

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AUBADE

Posted on 23 September 2020 by Marie Sheard

As the curtains pale with the light of dawn, I turn to you but you are gone. The crisp cotton pillow undisturbed, no watch on the bedside table. This is the first day of the rest of my life, my … Continue reading →

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Supper at Emmaus (Caravaggio)

Posted on 15 April 2020 by Marie Sheard

                  It is a simple scene. Three men served a supper By the innkeeper. Astonishment on two faces, Curiosity on another. Serenity on the fourth As he blesses the food on the … Continue reading →

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Japanese Spring (Tanka)

Posted on 15 April 2020 by Marie Sheard

Soaring swallows swirl In the bright blue spring sunshine. Renewal is here. Snowdrops burst white from their sleep, Fresh leaves on the willow tree. Joy swells in my heart. I dance in the green garden. Peonies bloom pink, Tall bamboos … Continue reading →

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