The Magic Never Left: Listen, by D.R. Ingram
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.
A jaunt. A quick, jovial walk. Exercise done maddeningly for pleasure rather than health and yet the benefits certainly out-perform a lot of workouts. Concrete underfoot has led to so many blisters in my time that it is an absolute pleasure to step on soft grass and breathe in something other than exhaust fumes and dust. Simply grab a bench and sit beneath the trees that dapple the ground with curious shadows and allow my mind to weave and wave with the rust and gold covered branches that swing above me.
Breathe.
A cleansing of the soul and remover of stress. Even down to the science I found out once. Turns out that trees actually release chemicals and spending time around them at the very least can reduce stress responses and at best can unfathomably improve wound healing. A molecular proof of a forest’s magic.
With the traffic’s insult muted by the trees and the sun peaking playfully through the steel-grey clouds, the small pond with its sleepy owners of green and brown quacking their displeasure at the curious dogs that worry them from the gate it becomes so easy to rest the static filled mind. White-noise so gladly consuming every space slowly draining away with each flower-scented breath. Haden Hill Park. The single space within a labyrinth of roads that gave me back my peace. And if I fancy the exercise? Well I can walk past the pond instead of the House and climb that blasted hill.
Haden Hill and House, Sandwell
D. R. Ingram is an author harking from the West Midlands. An avid fan of nature and long walks this piece was inspired by her local area.
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.
