'Even in grief we can have gratitude', writes Michael Manning
The Manx Bard has paid tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by writing a poem to commemorate her 70-year reign as monarch.
Michael Manning, who was appointed Bard last month, was asked to compose the piece following the Lord of Mann's death earlier this month.
The piece references the Queen's motherhood, and says that 'even in grief we can have gratitude'.
You can read the composition in full below:
On the wind, across the waves, wondering, the word came.
In the quiet an age has ended. Kindness and soft silence.
We are the ones who remain.
We used to send our sovereigns off in ships, then gathered to a hill to tend the fire.
In the dark deep there is more than gold and rubies, earnest pomp.
A mother’s dignity. Love’s fidelity. Bearing of the burdens that were brought.
How is it that there is no way to freedom but to cast off, cast away, be cast adrift?
Beyond our harboured horizons lies an invitation to the promised paean.
Where is our stay of courage? Even in grief we can have gratitude.
Out upon the salt waves, wild water, willing wind and wonder.
Away from queens and kings and all the loosening landward things.
To learn new songs. A different reign. A reckless hope. Oh, there is a vaster sky.
Go gentle, gentle, gentle.
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