Anthony's Literary Lens

Author: Anthony Thomas

  • Norwegian Church

    Norwegian Church

    The Norwegian Church in Cardiff Bay is a historic and cultural landmark in Cardiff, Wales. It was originally built in 1868 to serve the growing Norwegian community in the area, many of whom were involved in the shipping and coal trading industries. The church played a vital role in the community, serving as a place of worship and a social centre for Norwegians living in

    Norwegian Church in Cardiff Bay
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    In the late 20th century, the church fell into disuse, but it was later renovated and reopened as a cultural and arts centre. Interestingly, in 1916, the world-famous author Roald Dahl, who was born in Cardiff and whose parents were Norwegian, was baptised in the Norwegian Church. This historical connection adds to its significance.

    Today, it hosts various events, exhibitions, and performances, making it a hub for cultural and artistic activities in Cardiff. It also has a cafe with beautiful waterfront views. The Norwegian Church is an important part of the cultural heritage of Cardiff and the broader history of the Welsh-Norwegian connection in the city

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  • The Evolution of Welsh Devolution

    The Evolution of Welsh Devolution

    In the heart of Cardiff Bay, nestled alongside the glistening waters, stands a striking building that embodies the aspirations of a nation. The Senedd Cymru, or Welsh Parliament, is a symbol of Wales’ journey towards self-governance, a journey that has been marked by both progress and setbacks.

    A photo I took a few years ago.
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    The dragon’s fire
    From humble beginnings, a flame took hold,
    Devolution’s embers, burning bold.
    Through trials and tribulations, it did grow,
    A beacon of Welsh self-governance’s glow.

    My Welsh version. It’s a computer translation but I thought I’d treat you all to some Welsh.

    Tân y ddraig
    O ddechreuadau gostyngedig, cydiodd fflam,
    Embers datganoli, llosgi beiddgar.
    Trwy brofedigaethau a gorthrymderau, tyfodd,
    Ffagl o llewyrch hunanlywodraeth Gymreig.

    In 1997, a narrow referendum victory (50.3%) paved the way for the establishment of the Welsh Assembly. Initially possessing limited powers, the Assembly gradually gained more autonomy, culminating in its renaming as the Senedd Cymru in 2020.

    Today, the Senedd holds a wide range of powers, including responsibility for education, health, housing, and the environment. It also has the power to set Welsh taxes, such as income tax and landfill tax.

    The Senedd is a symbol of Wales’ aspirations for self-governance. Its evolution has been a gradual process, but it now plays a vital role in the governance of the nation.

    As the Senedd continues to evolve, it is likely to remain a focal point for Welsh identity and its pursuit of greater autonomy.

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  • The Enchanted Nest

    The Enchanted Nest

    Nature’s wisdom reveals itself where skylarks find sanctuary amidst bilberries

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    The discovery of a skylark nest nestled amid a patch of bilberries is a fascinating glimpse into the natural world, offering insight into the unique flora and fauna of the environment. The skylark, known for its enchanting and melodious song, often chooses inconspicuous nesting sites, blending into its surroundings. The bilberry, also known as the whortleberry or blaeberry, is a small, blue-black fruit that thrives in upland areas, such as the mountains of Wales.

    The skylark (Alauda arvensis) is a symbol of the open countryside, renowned for its joyful and complex songs that fill the air during their territorial displays. The species has a preference for nesting on the ground, hidden amidst vegetation like bilberries. The choice of bilberries as a nesting location provides both camouflage and a source of food for the skylark. Bilberries are rich in antioxidants and nutrients, making them a valuable dietary resource for local wildlife.

    Bilberries, while resembling blueberries, have distinct characteristics. They typically grow in acidic and nutrient-poor soils, thriving in the uplands of places like Wales. The shrubs are low-growing, adorned with small, deep blue fruits that are enjoyed by various birds, including skylarks, and other wildlife. Bilberries are not only a food source but are also valued for their potential health benefits, as they are believed to have antioxidant properties.

    The synergy between the skylark and the bilberry in this natural setting exemplifies the intricate relationships between flora and fauna. The discovery of the skylark’s nest surrounded by bilberries underscores the importance of preserving such habitats and understanding the interconnectedness of the species that call them home. It’s a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and the wonders to be found in the wild landscapes of Wales.

    A skylark soars, a joyous speck in the boundless blue, singing freedom’s song as it reaches new heights

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  • Raglan Castle: Echoing Through Time

    Raglan Castle: Echoing Through Time

    In the heart of the lush Welsh countryside, there stood a castle unlike any other. Its name was whispered in awe and reverence across the land – Raglan Castle. The castle’s history was a tapestry woven with threads of valour, intrigue, and timeless beauty.

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    The very walls of Raglan Castle seemed to carry echoes of the 12th century, when the earliest stones were laid. As the centuries passed, its destiny was irrevocably entwined with the Herbert family. Sir William ap Thomas, a man of vision and ambition, took it upon himself to transform Raglan into a fortress fit for a noble dynasty.

    The castle’s defining feature, the “Yellow Tower of Gwent,” rose proudly into the sky, its hexagonal shape defying convention and capturing the imagination of all who beheld it. Raglan Castle’s grandeur was further accentuated by its double-towered gatehouse and the shimmering moat that encircled it.

    But Raglan Castle was not merely an architectural marvel. It was a stage upon which history unfolded. The Herberts played their part in the Wars of the Roses, their legacy forever etched in the stone walls of Raglan. As the castle reached its zenith, it was a symbol of power, influence, and unyielding loyalty.

    However, as fate would have it, the English Civil War descended upon the land, casting a shadow of conflict and change. Raglan Castle found itself at the epicentre of a fierce struggle. When the Royalists and Parliamentarians clashed, the castle stood defiant, its spirit unbroken.

    The year was 1646, and the siege was relentless. But the indomitable fortress of Raglan withstood all assaults, a testament to the courage of its defenders. Eventually, the winds of change blew, and the Royalist cause faltered. The castle fell, and its defiance was silenced.

    Now, in the modern age, Raglan Castle stands in picturesque ruin. The echoes of its past resonate in every stone, in the grand tower that still reaches for the heavens, and in the waters of the moat that once protected it. It is a place of wonder and contemplation, a living testament to the enduring spirit of Wales and the castles that define its history.

    Raglan Castle, with its dramatic past and timeless beauty, remains a beacon for those who seek to glimpse the shadows of history and feel the echoes of a bygone era.

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  • Reflecting on mindfulness

    Reflecting on mindfulness

    A delicately balanced leaf floating on water is a beautiful sight. It’s a result of the surface tension on the mirrored surface, making the leaf appear almost weightless as it rests on the water’s surface. This can be a mesmerising sight.

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    As I reflect on this natural spectacle, it encourages me to reflect on the fine balance of our mental health. Just as the leaf delicately stays afloat, our mental well-being often relies on a delicate equilibrium. Various factors like stress, emotions, and external pressures can tip that balance. However, when we take a moment to observe the leaf’s poise, it can remind us of the importance of mindfulness.

    Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment, much like observing the leaf on the water’s surface. It allows us to appreciate the beauty of the world around us and become aware of our thoughts and emotions without judgement. This practice can help us maintain a healthier mental state.

    The leaf on water serves as a reminder that life’s delicate balance can be both beautiful and calming, and just like it remains afloat despite the water’s gentle currents, our mindfulness can help us navigate the challenges of life while preserving our mental health.

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  • Mary Wollstonecraft – Frankenstein’s grandmother?

    Mary Wollstonecraft – Frankenstein’s grandmother?

    Mary Wollstonecraft (1759-1797) was an English writer, philosopher, and early advocate for women’s rights. She is best known for her groundbreaking work, “A Vindication of the Rights of Woman,” published in 1792. Wollstonecraft’s ideas laid the foundation for modern feminism and the fight for women’s equality.

    I do not wish [women] to have power over men; but over themselves

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    “A Vindication of the Rights of Woman”
    In this influential book, Wollstonecraft argued for the equal education and treatment of women. She believed that women were not naturally inferior to men but were instead constrained by the limited opportunities and education available to them. She advocated for women’s right to be educated and to engage in the same intellectual pursuits as men.

    Mary Wollstonecraft

    Personal Life
    Wollstonecraft’s personal life was marked by her unconventional choices. She had affairs and a child out of wedlock, which were considered scandalous in her time. Her own life experiences, however, fueled her passion for advocating women’s rights and challenging societal norms.

    Legacy
    Mary Wollstonecraft’s ideas had a profound and lasting impact. Her work inspired subsequent generations of feminists and laid the intellectual groundwork for the first wave of feminism in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

    Daughter’s Legacy
    Mary Wollstonecraft’s daughter, Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley, became a famous writer herself and is best known as the author of “Frankenstein.”

    Wollstonecraft’s writings and ideas continue to be celebrated for their pioneering stance on women’s rights and their lasting influence on the fight for gender equality. She remains a respected figure in the history of feminism and women’s rights.

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  • Of Moss and Memories: The Forest Bridge

    Of Moss and Memories: The Forest Bridge

    As I crossed the weathered planks, I discovered the bridge’s secret: it led to inner peace

    Somewhere in Snowdon, Wales
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    Beneath a canopy of ancient oaks and maples, a rustic bridge emerges, its weathered planks worn smooth by countless footsteps. It spans a meandering river, whose waters whisper secrets to the wind-kissed leaves. As you step onto the bridge, the scent of damp earth and moss rises to meet you, a fragrance carried on a gentle breeze. The bridge’s timeworn rails offer a comforting grip, guiding you through the heart of this enchanted forest. In the dappled sunlight, you find solace, where the bridge becomes a silent witness to the stories of the woods, standing strong through seasons and time.

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  • Legends of Pembrokeshire: Saint Govan’s Sacred Refuge

    Legends of Pembrokeshire: Saint Govan’s Sacred Refuge

    In the early 6th century, in the rugged, windswept cliffs of Pembrokeshire, where the sea meets the land, there lived a hermit named Saint Govan. He had found solace in the natural beauty of the coastal landscape and the spiritual connection it offered.

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    One fateful day, as Saint Govan knelt in prayer within his humble chapel, a band of fearsome pirates descended upon the rocky shores. They sought to plunder the nearby village and destroy the hermit’s sacred sanctuary. The hermit, a man of unwavering faith, continued to pray for protection.

    In a miraculous turn of events, the very cliffs that cradled Saint Govan’s chapel began to open up, forming a narrow cleft in the rock face. It is said that this cleft was just wide enough to shelter the hermit from the marauding pirates. As the band of outlaws approached, they were unable to locate the hidden entrance to the chapel, and their attempts to reach Saint Govan were thwarted by the hand of God.

    With awe and amazement, the pirates eventually gave up their pursuit and departed, leaving Saint Govan unharmed. It was a divine act of protection, and the hermit saw it as a sign of God’s grace.

    From that day forward, Saint Govan continued his life of contemplation and prayer in the tranquil solitude of his chapel, grateful for the miraculous shelter provided by the very cliffs that he had come to love. The legend of Saint Govan’s miraculous escape and his unwavering devotion continues to be told and cherished in the heart of Pembrokeshire, a testament to the power of faith and the wonders of nature.

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  • Peaceful Pool

    Peaceful Pool

    In the realm of tranquillity, where the sun descends to embrace the horizon in a warm, golden light, there lies a still pool of water that is the very essence of placid composure. Its mirrored surface, kissed by the fading light, is a silent reflection of mindfulness.

    In this pool, a reminder so clear,
    Impermanence whispers, in every tear.
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    Picture the water, a mirror to our own souls, undisturbed and crystal-clear. As the sun’s rays gently weave their enchantment upon it, an array of colours dances in response. Nature has painted a masterpiece, reminding us that the present moment is an exquisite work of art.

    The sun’s descent is a gentle reminder to release the burdens of the day, much like the ripples that form and then vanish on the water’s surface. Each moment, a whisper from nature, tells us to be fully present, to open our hearts to the now.

    Amidst the hushed tranquillity of this scene, we find a profound sense of inner peace. Imagine your mind as still as this pool, your thoughts mere ripples that arise and disappear like fleeting dreams. Be fully immersed in this very moment, just as the pool reflects the world’s all-encompassing beauty.

    In the profound quietude of this tranquil moment, we are reminded that even the most radiant days must eventually fade, making way for new beginnings. Carry with you the wisdom of awareness as you journey through the ever-changing currents of life, always returning to the calm, reflective pool of your own being. Find solace and presence in every golden sunset, a reminder of the limitless beauty that surrounds us.

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  • Beneath the Weathered Bark

    Beneath the Weathered Bark

    In the quiet cradle of the forest’s breath, a humble oak seedling awakened, nestled within the varied canvas of emerald secrets. Time unfurled its leaves like pages in history, and as seasons pirouetted in the sunlight, the oak grew to touch the sky with wise, gnarled fingers.

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    The ancients whispered to it of the world’s ephemeral dance. The secrets of mankind etched on its bark as the observer of folly and triumph, scarred witness to a tapestry of human ambition. From iron plough to steel skyscrapers, it bore witness to the voracious thirst for progress.

    Yet, in the dying whispers of leaves that once rustled with life, the oak’s enigmatic lament emerged. The legacy of mankind, etched deeply into its aged rings, bore the weight of sorrow and responsibility. As it withered, the world it knew crumbled, and the once-vibrant forest dwindled, overtaken by the encroachments of urban banality.

    Mankind, the same hands that shaped civilizations, now held the blade that carved the oak’s fading epitaph. The delicate balance of nature, once protected by reverence, now teetered on the precipice of oblivion. The silent oak, keeper of nature’s chronicle, grieved for the world it had known, a desperate commentary on humanity’s paradoxical journey—nurturer and destroyer, the hand that both planted and uprooted life.

    The oak’s final whispers carried a poignant warning—a riddle of choices made, a legacy on the brink of fading, and a plea for the world to heed the echoes that lingered in its fragile leaves, before the story ended, and all that remained was silence.

    Grand Oak. Tap to view my redbubble gallery.

    Oak tree, wise and old
    Witness to human folly
    Whispers in the wind

    Anthony
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