Robert Frost was an American poet born in San Francisco, California, on March 26, 1874. He is widely regarded as one of the most important poets of the 20th century. Frost’s work is known for its depictions of rural New England life, its use of everyday speech, and its exploration of complex philosophical themes.
Frost’s family moved to Massachusetts after his father died in 1885, and he spent much of his youth there. He attended Harvard University briefly but left to pursue a career in farming and writing. His first book of poetry, “A Boy’s Will,” was published in 1913, followed by “North of Boston” in 1914, establishing his reputation as a leading poet. Frost received numerous accolades throughout his career, including four Pulitzer Prizes for Poetry. Some of his most famous poems include “The Road Not Taken,” “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening,” and “Mending Wall.” His work often explores themes of nature, rural life, individuality, and the human condition.
Frost’s style is characterized by its conversational tone and rhythmic quality, often reflecting the speech patterns of New Englanders. He was also known for his public readings and engaging personality, which helped popularize his poetry. Frost continued to write and publish until his later years, and he passed away on January 29, 1963, in Boston, Massachusetts. His legacy endures, and he remains a central figure in American literature.
Once upon a time, in a small, sunlit town, two cradles sat in a cosy nursery. Inside one cradle lay a girl named Lily, with bright blue eyes and curly hair. In the other, a boy named Jack cooed with a shock of dark hair and a mischievous grin as he reached out to touch the world around him. Their parents were close friends, and from the very beginning, their lives were intertwined. As infants, Lily and Jack shared playdates filled with giggles and laughter. Their families often found them reaching for each other’s toys, their tiny hands clasped together. As they grew, their bond deepened; they learned to walk, talk, and explore the world side by side. They built forts in the backyard, rode bicycles down the lane, and spent countless summer afternoons chasing fireflies.
Through childhood and adolescence, they faced the ups and downs of life together. They were each other’s confidants, sharing dreams and fears. Jack would make Lily laugh when she felt shy, and Lily would calm Jack’s wild spirit when he needed peace. They danced through school dances, cheered each other during sports, and supported one another through heartbreaks. As they entered adulthood, their friendship blossomed into love. After many adventures, Jack finally asked Lily to marry him on a starlit night beneath the old oak tree where they had spent many evenings dreaming of the future. With tears of joy, she said yes, and they celebrated their union surrounded by friends and family.
Their marriage was a beautiful journey that spanned 70 years. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments. They travelled the world, explored new cultures, and created a home that was always warm and inviting. They welcomed children and later grandchildren, filling their lives with even more joy and love. As the years passed, Lily and Jack grew old, their hands still intertwined as they reminisced about their shared history. They often laughed about their adventures as children, recalling the mischief they had caused and the dreams they once had. Their love had weathered storms and celebrated triumphs, each moment adding to the tapestry of their lives.
On their 90th anniversary of friendship, they threw a grand celebration, inviting everyone who had been part of their journey. Friends and family gathered to share stories, laughter, and tears, honouring the extraordinary bond that had started in that nursery many years ago. As they stood together, surrounded by loved ones, Jack took Lily’s hand, looking into her eyes with the same love he had felt since they were infants. “You’ve been my best friend and greatest adventure,” he said softly. Lily smiled, her heart full. “And you’ve been my home,” she replied.
In that moment, they knew that their incredible journey—one that began in cradles and flourished over decades—was a testament to the power of love and friendship. As the sun set, casting a golden glow over the gathering, they felt a deep sense of gratitude for every moment they had shared, knowing that their hearts would remain intertwined for all eternity.
Bertrand Russell (1872-1970) was a British philosopher, logician, mathematician, historian, and social critic, best known for his analytical philosophy work and advocacy of pacifism, social reform, and nuclear disarmament. Russell was born into an aristocratic family in Trellech, Wales. He was educated at home until age 11, then attended the prestigious Westminster School and later studied at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he excelled in mathematics and philosophy. Russell made significant contributions to various fields: – Logic and Mathematics: His work in logic, particularly in his co-authored book “Principia Mathematica” with Alfred North Whitehead, aimed to derive mathematics from logical foundations. – Philosophy: He was a leading figure in developing analytic philosophy. His essay “On Denoting” is pivotal in understanding reference and meaning in language.
Political Activism A lifelong advocate for social justice, Russell was outspoken against war and violence. He was a prominent pacifist during World War I and later protested against nuclear weapons during the Cold War. His activism led to imprisonment and significant public attention. In his later years, Russell became a public intellectual, writing extensively on various subjects, including education, religion, and society. He received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1950 for his varied writings.
Russell’s philosophical ideas have influenced numerous fields and are still being studied. His commitment to reason, scepticism, and humanitarianism left a lasting legacy in philosophy and social activism. Some of his notable works include: – “The Principles of Mathematics” – “A History of Western Philosophy” – “Why I Am Not a Christian” – “The Conquest of Happiness”
Russell’s life and work reflect a profound engagement with both the intellectual and practical issues of his time, shaping modern thought and public discourse.
It is an absolute pleasure and most satisfying to facilitate this diverse group of writers. Some members have never written stories since school. The group has been running for three years and is based at Ystradgynlais Library. The membership, aged 23 to 83, is diverse, and we pride ourselves on inclusivity. In 2023, we published the first ‘Anthology of Collected Stories – 500 Words’ https://amzn.eu/d/7Nu5xQF and look forward to publishing Volume 2 in early 2025. The National Lottery Community Fund supported the group with a Development Grant in the summer of this year. The award was presented by Carole Morgan Hopkin, artist, author and poet.
A Creative Writing competition for all ages helped to increase interest in story-telling, and there is yet another in the wings. Guest authors drop in every six weeks and share their journey as writers, and we visited the Hay Literature Festival this year.
And so we ended this year with a Festive Tales Tour and had the honour of performing the group’s work at the Pontardawe Heritage and Visitor Centre and in the ancient 6th Century Llangwig Church. The tour began for a home audience at Ystradgynlais Library.
Ystradgynlais Creative Writing Group Festive Tales Tour – Pontardawe Heritage and Visitor Centre
Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year
Grateful Thanks to:
Ystradgynlais Library, Powys County Council, National Lottery Community Fund, Oystermouth Radio, Pontardawe Heritage and Visitor Centre, Llangwig Trust, Carole Morgan Hopkin. Jo Paine (Chairperson), Paul Rees (Secretary), Mark Hopton, Emily Northey, Jode Pegge-Jones, Tony Pegge-Jones, Pam Moon, Jayden Trott, Ruth Peace, Sentient Coven and Laura Price.
Lazarus Carpenter - Author 