Simon Armitage
Born: 26 May 1963 (age 48)
Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, England
Occupation: Poet, Writer, Presenter
Nationality: British
More Information: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simon_Armitage
Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, England
Occupation: Poet, Writer, Presenter
Nationality: British
More Information: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simon_Armitage
Give
Some of the poems in this collection deal with issues of belief and human identity.
Although not a religious poem, ‘Give’ does allude to Christian ideas and possibly
suggests that modern society has abandoned any thought for the less fortunate
and become overtaken by selfish desires for economic gain and trivial
entertainment. The ‘voice’ in this poem is a homeless person who speaks
directly to the reader, appealing to be noticed and not ignored.
Of all the public places, dear,
to make a scene, I’ve chosen here.
Of all the doorways in the world
to choose to sleep, I’ve chosen yours.
I’m on the street, under the stars.
For coppers I can dance or sing.
For silver – swallow swords, eat fire.
For gold – escape from locks and chains.
It’s not as if I’m holding out
for frankincense or myrrh, just change.
You give me tea. That’s big of you.I’m on my knees. I beg of you.
Although not a religious poem, ‘Give’ does allude to Christian ideas and possibly
suggests that modern society has abandoned any thought for the less fortunate
and become overtaken by selfish desires for economic gain and trivial
entertainment. The ‘voice’ in this poem is a homeless person who speaks
directly to the reader, appealing to be noticed and not ignored.
Of all the public places, dear,
to make a scene, I’ve chosen here.
Of all the doorways in the world
to choose to sleep, I’ve chosen yours.
I’m on the street, under the stars.
For coppers I can dance or sing.
For silver – swallow swords, eat fire.
For gold – escape from locks and chains.
It’s not as if I’m holding out
for frankincense or myrrh, just change.
You give me tea. That’s big of you.I’m on my knees. I beg of you.
The Manhunt
C.V. (Pg. 7)
Simon Armitage Reading C.V. - http://poetrystation.org.uk/poems/cv/