This mighty edifice imposes itself upon
the horizon, a brutal slab of stone. It thrusts
into the sky distorting gravity;
we stand before its feet and sway.
Above an array of monarchs, saints and grotesques
stare down at us, distorted faces worn
by age and weather. Their bulging eyes follow
our fleeting lives that form and fade with the wind.
For the last few days, York Minister has been the dramatic backdrop to our lives, what an amazing building.
(20.02.26)
© Ben Quant 2026
I have two eyes.
They’re the only eyes
I’ve ever had.
My eyes are hazel.
My eyes are white,
My eyes are male,
And middle class.
I wonder what
I’d look like with
Two different ones?
I wonder how
I’d see the world
And how the world
would see me if
My eyes were black,
My eyes were gay
My eyes were female
My eyes were rich
Or working class?
I have two eyes.
They’re the only eyes
I’ve ever had
I must remember
That they come
In different types
And mine are mine alone.
It’s been a fascinating day spent with people of a whole range of cultures and backgrounds.
(07.02.25)
A pair of trainers. Comfortable.
Designed for action or
to signal aspiration.
Italian leather. Sharp.
Cut for the City worker.
Ready for business.
DMs. Scuffed, well-worn.
Also ready for business…
…but maybe not the same sort.
Flip-flops casually flapping.
Imagining lazing on
the beach or chilling out.
Precarious stilettos.
Ready to party, although,
they maybe removed to dance.
Bare feet. Also scuffed, well-worn.
Young, with many miles
already clocked. Tired.
(18.10.24)
© Ben Quant 2024
Photo by Michael Wright on Unsplash
Ode for the Day 