Month: November 2002

Lumps of Coal

Lumps of Coal

by Godfrey J. Ellis — November 2002 A classic Christmas legend I’d always heard: “Naughty boys and girls, get lumps of coal in their stockings.” An idea begins to form, it brews, and hatches! I’ll give Mum lumps of coal, then, reveal love’s true gift! Anticipation already sees the scene: Red-faced Mum gasping! Family laughing! […]

The Addiction

The Addiction

by Godfrey J. Ellis – October 2002 Not all of my poems are nostalgic memories of childhood. The poem below is a frank (perhaps too frank) perception of my wonderful, talented, and frankly saintly mother who, unfortunately, was addicted. She was not addicted to drink or drug. She was addicted to external praise. My brother […]

James Chapple of Bodmin Gaol

James Chapple of Bodmin Gaol

by Godfrey J. Ellis – November 2002 This poem shares my shifting impressions upon visiting the Bodmin Gaol (Jail).  There, I experienced an unexpected roller-coaster of conflicting feelings about my distant ancestor, James Chapple. Chest swelling, Button popping, Rightful heir, Spirits high. Entering Bodmin Jail, Gaol – Gee! Old and lofty prison, Bastion, tall and […]