Henrietta’s limes, by Ian Critchley
Sydney Gardens Tree Weekender writing competition — this piece was selected by our volunteer judges as worthy to be included on a long list. Competition entrants were asked to write a poem or prose piece of 250 words or fewer on the theme of trees in parks and public gardens, as well as identify the local park or garden, the trees in which inspired them.
In beautiful Henrietta Park there is a grove of mature lime trees, between the perimeter footpath and Henrietta Mews. There are small and large leaved native varieties and common hybrids. It is likely that they have been there since the 1890s soon after the park was laid out. They do not possess the grandeur of the champion purple sycamore or the London plane, but to me they are special.
The trees respond earlier than most to the welcoming light and warmth of spring. I love the burst of fresh, small, light green leaves — looking up to a clear sky in late April they are reminiscent of the dappled spots of an Impressionist scene.
Midsummer heralds the lime trees’ greatest treat. On warm days a superb scent emanates from the flowers, carrying to nearby parts of the park on a gentle breeze. Walking beneath the limes it’s as if someone wearing a gorgeous, natural perfume has been along a little while before you and disappeared from sight. A hint of citrus perhaps? Maybe this is in my imagination.
The trees excite more than one of the senses at this time. Listen — there is a gentle background hum as you walk between the trees. The flowers attract thousands of bees and insects to sample their nectar.
Early autumn arrives and the seeds glide gently to the grass below, singles or pairs rotating beneath straw coloured wings. It’s time for the trees to rest and prepare for next year’s bounty.
Henrietta Park, Bath
A resident of Bathwick for 40 years, the local parks with their stunning trees are intimately familiar to Ian Critchley.
Read other long listed pieces here. From 24 November, discover whether this piece made the shortlist — you can listen to it using the Echoes.xyz app either within or around Sydney Gardens in Bath or remotely.
Find out about all the events running on-line or in Sydney Gardens over the Tree Weekender on 27 & 28 November 2021, and look out especially for the Celebratory Finale Showcase at which the Competition winners and runners-up will be announced.
With special thanks to Dr Richard White and undergraduate students in Participatory Media at Bath Spa University for their support in making the geo-located audio pieces.
