Article Author: Claire Howland

Magpies Claire Howland Navy-tuxedoed inspectors strut across the street, creep cunningly exploring filthy footpaths but they do so with regality. Intelligence sparks in agile skips

Ancestors Claire Howland I never really believed in ghosts I never liked to think that they could linger, watching too many fears are nurtured in

Thoughts Claire Howland Thoughts fill your mind and take up all your time, Fluttering like a thousand hover flies, They burn like candles in the

The phone is ringing. Reluctantly, I pick it up. ‘Hello,’ says a voice. I say nothing. ‘Hello? This is Kylie from next door. I’m ringing

I stand on the pine needle rug As leaves blanket the ground Trees’ orange-tipped fingers Gliding gently to earth; Above in the drifting clouds Swallows

Late Night Wanderers Claire Howland   In the red evening, Surrounded by flowers She stands; Secretive, luring. Leafy green branches Entwined around Her pale, outstretched

  Approaching Day Haikus Claire Howland   Evening disappears Night fades into morning light And birds’ laughter rings.   River greets the morn Rushing over