A Toe in the Water.
This is a test publication. It will be the first time, that I have tried to publish an audio file, here on Substack.
As audio test subject matter, I have chosen what in my humble opinion, is a wonderfully moving poem, a poem which passed from one Author: i.e. William McLaughlin, to a fellow Author: Derick Bingham, apparently while the latter, was engaged in the writing of a fascinating, but at the same time, in so many ways sad account, i.e. a book, about the lives of the amazingly talented, and artistic: Brontë family.
The title of the book is:
The Brontës
Veins Running Fire
The Incredible Story of a Literary Family
Publisher: Ambassador Publications
Providence House
Ardellee Street,
Belfast,
BT6 8QJ
Northern Ireland
ISBN 978-1-84030-188-5
To me, the Author of the poem, which I will recite for you in the included audio file, and which features on page 144 of the above book, is unclear. The Author of the Brontë book i.e. Derick Bingham, references both to the Poet: Keats’, and to the writers: Currer, Ellis and Acton Bell (the latter three names, being the nom de plume’s of the Brontë Sisters), within the text, which appears in proximity to the poem. No title for the poem, is provided by Derick Bingham.
In my humble opinion, the simple rhyme and messaging of this poem, is as poignant, as it is moving, and unquestioningly the Brontë Sisters were more than deserving, of such sentiment and should have enjoyed many accolades, while they were in a position, to appreciate them.
While the words: man and him are utilised throughout the poem, the words woman and her in reality, equally apply. I hope you enjoy the poem.
I would highly recommend, that readers/listeners here seek out a hard copy of the above book, which I found to have been a fascinating, and engaging read.
Take care ..
Frank Lennon
September / October 2025
