Muse – noun:
1. somebody who inspires artist: someone who is a source of inspiration for an artist, especially a poet
2. artist’s inspiration: the source of inspiration that stimulates an artist, especially a poet
3. artist’s particular talent: the gift or talent of an artist, especially a poet
For
Judith Campbell
A
Celebration
During an exhibition, these photographs and the following poem were handed to me by a complete stranger in response to my work on the heath. It was one of those very special moments.
THE PRESENCES
for Judith Campbell
Should you approach them
they will keep silent
though sly sounds filter
from shifty undergrowth.
As you sidle past them
they appear to ignore you
yet you’ll sense exposure
to the seasons’ ferment.
When you depart from them
they’ll spare nothing for you
but you may take a turn
towards a half-known place.
Bob Ward
May 2003
