This England
By D.J. Austen
This England, this England. “This sceptered isle,” Shakespeare wrote. The liquid history of the Thames; Stone castles with reflective moat
Of rivers that run fast and slow By sheltered meadows and lea. The Lake District, Norfolk Broads And Sussex by the Sea.
This England, with cathedrals Throughout the majestic land; Canterbury, Rochester and Lincoln Proclaiming God’s almighty hand.
This England, of coastal fishing towns, Village hamlets and cricket greens; Of forests, woodlands and fertile fields, So lovely it all seems.
This England, this England, Lauded in story, poem and song, With never a thought to leave, But to stay and to belong.