Sunday, April 11, 2010

Scoil Acla 'Battle of The Trad Bands'.


Last evening 'The Battle of the Trad Bands' event, part of Scoil Acla's centenary celebrations was held at the Wavecrest Hotel, Dooagh, Achill. Here is a short clip of some local pipers at the opening. A 3 man band all the way from Ennis, Co. Clare, 'The Socks in The Frying pan', won the event and the E1000 prize. It was an excellent evening and a good time was had by all.

Sunday, April 4, 2010

Rivers & Mountains


I thought I would show you this strange cloud photographed from my front door early one morning in January.
Achill Open Mic Night continues to go from strength to strength. For more info see 'Friends of Achill Open Mic' on facebook.
I did a residency at Heinrich Boll Cottage (thank you to Achill Heinrich Boll Association)here on Achill island in early February which allowed me to concentrate on my current poetry manuscripts. I am now looking for a publisher for this my 2nd full collection, though may publish under my own small press, 'Sea Eagle Poetry'.
Here are a couple of my most recent draft poems from my 'Rivers & Mountains series:

Spring Day

Saffron gorse paints the river's banks with joy,
mist filling valleys between faraway mountains.

Buds swell and birds travel in pairs singing from
garden trees and bushes. Daffodil, primrose

and blue starry flowers crowd about my door.
Miracles and bliss! Life unfolds from sleep!

(c) Mark F Chaddock

Frogs

Last evening after unceasing rains
croaking and cavorting in flooded drains.

Now, still and silent, spawn clumps
gleam in morning sunlight.

Only me to see them - and this parade
of yellow trumpet flowers greeting the day.

Live long and die well my little friends!

(c) Mark F Chaddock