An Ode to Croquet For JC, with great respect There’s a breathless hush on the courts today, for here the white-clad members play.
As the sun beats down on those sheltering hats comes the click of the ball and the plotting chats.
Now hear the gasp of surprise and delight as a ball goes through that hoop of white.
The shadows lengthen across the green. Oh! How idyllic this peaceful scene.
When, loud and splendid, comes the call, “Go on then! Hit the bloody ball!” Raymond May (with apologies to Sir Henry Newbolt) November 2011 The New Season Prepare the courts with line and marker No longer do the days grow darker. Unpack your whites, dust off your mallet, gather the coloured balls. For spring has come, and Croquet calls! Raymond May February 2012 |