Leukē, by Diana Aiken
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.
I am fortunate to live next to an elderly lady whose singular strength of personality movingly fulfils the many whims and ways of her world. It is as if she is orchestrating the planet in an harmonious cantata.
Her family originally came from Morocco but some members emigrated years ago to the UK.
In spite of being tall and elderly, she maintains a youthful and sprightly appearance. Her delicately thinning crown glistens with flashes of white as her downy follicles reflect the light. Over time her girth has gently expanded, I suspect in the same proportion as her own happiness, because she loves this beautiful valley with the undulating hills, the gently meandering river and the abundance of wildlife.
Whenever I visit, she is wearing a fine dress of silver greenish-grey satin, with her skirt studded with small diamonds. Through the years, this is the only aspect of her appearance that has waned. Her silver sleeves cover her outstretched arms as they wave to welcome one towards her, or bend to offer her friendly caresses on departure. I love her caring nature. She lights up my day.
Her name is Leukē; she was named after the nymph with whom Pluto fell in love, and then abducted to the underworld.
When Pluto’s love died he buried her, and from her body a great tree grew as a constant reminder of his love, creating a lasting memorial to her. Leukē translates to White Poplar.
I recently planted one of her progeny.
Wellow Brook Valley, Shoscombe
Surrounded by Somerset countryside, Diana Aiken finds inspiration from the visual experience the landscape provides. She welcomed the opportunity to write about her favourite tree.
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.
