Farthingale Publications

A Poem by John Clare 1793 - 1864


After Reading in a Letter Proposals for Building a Cottage

pic Beside a runnel build my shed,
With stubbles covered o'er;
Let broad oaks o'er its chimney spread,
And grass-plats grace the door.

The door may open with a string,
So that it closes tight;
And locks would be a wanted thing,
To keep out thieves at night.

A little garden, not too fine,
Inclose with painted pales;
And woodbines, round the cot to twine,
Pin to the wall with nails.

pic Let hazels grow, and spindling sedge,
Bend bowering over-head;
Dig old man's beard from woodland hedge,
To twine a summer shade.

Beside the threshold sods provide,
And build a summer seat;
Plant sweet-briar bushes by its side,
And flowers that blossom sweet.

I love the sparrow's ways to watch,
Upon the cotter's sheds;
So here and there pull out the thatch,
That they may hide their heads.

pic And as the sweeping swallows stop,
Their flights along the green;
Leave holes within the chimney-top,
To paste their nest between.

Stick shelves and cupboards round the hut,
In all the holes and nooks;
Nor in the corner fail to put,
A cupboard for the books.

Along the floor some sand I'll shift,
To make it fit to live in;
And then I'll thank ye for the gift,
As something worth the giving.



pic John Clare (1793-1864): - was an English Romantic poet known as the "Northamptonshire Peasant Poet". An agricultural labourer, his literary talent was recognised from an early age and encouraged by his parents, he achieved great success with his poems describing rural life, nature and the scenic landscape around him. However, his life was marked by declining mental health, poverty, and eventual confinement in an asylum, whilst continuing to write prolifically during this time. His legacy of work is now valued as a powerful voice from the countryside and recognised with a tablet in Westminster Abbey's Poets' Corner.

pic Farthingale Publications: ..... Is a hobby web site containing articles of local interest to Lancastrians, some favourite walking and cycling routes, selected words and poetry, and some writings of more general nature as well as the authors own picture gallery. Access is available via the homepage and menu at the head of the page or via one of the direct links below.


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