2026-10-31T08:43:05Z https://nostr.now Simon J Ashcroft https://nostr.now/npub16u2566y2err6rj53e7txv99t5mfl24r93xrvfghxa2aa0l09ndjq0rf307 https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/accounts/avatars/112/729/242/898/749/435/original/dca100f08e6ac948.jpg https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/accounts/avatars/112/729/242/898/749/435/original/dca100f08e6ac948.jpg https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs042v4kyt32chrqcfva9vsu83qmplu6dyf54ps9fdfn75dzysf55czyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgg6ffs5 Autumn Woods<br/><br/>Liquid light filters<br/>through dying leaves, guiding me<br/>along woodland paths;<br/>wind stirs the trees, and spirits<br/>seem to whisper, &#34;Come back home.&#34;<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-10-18T19:00:12Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsq6fef5evruf3reh00npxlrhj762veajxjyn9jmhjn9kwnwk5w4lczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg3x65uv Reliquary<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#SJAshcroftsPoems #poems #poetry #PoetryCommunity #MyWordsMyWork<br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/117/458/712/750/358/923/original/3edec1874cd3c239.jpg"> <br/> 2026-10-17T22:37:39Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs80qjyecuadkt0qu0kdlq9w09yvxy0qmmwcxcdntna97nqdvteqsczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgmrvyax Sea&#39;s Call<br/><br/>A cold wind, biting<br/>across an empty beach, sings<br/>of distant places;<br/>but it assures the weary<br/>that they stand on their home shore.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-10-16T19:21:11Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsdpt292uuup20wq0h72xd9hvx0c6xfuhex43fp480paxx2wvdvh0czyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgsr87yk Cover<br/><br/>Let the night wrap me<br/>in a blanket of silence<br/>and comfort of sleep.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-10-14T21:16:42Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsqcsq8gahzcn3a838rxdn2dqwqrcmnqptr83ylukxfsxyztf75e7qzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgymtccu Cloaked<br/><br/>I&#39;ve waited so long<br/>in shadows, that I&#39;ve become<br/>a lost wanderer;<br/>the only path left open<br/>leads further into the night.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-10-11T22:04:38Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsx56636fwc0zntut0ve5z4lz69kkcv2ydp6j03f9a2889d4zymy4czyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg8suszj #ScribesAndMakers Oct 7: Create a four line rhyming poem that includes the word goose.<br/><br/>I met a goose this morning,<br/>with feathers snowy-white.<br/>From the way that it was hissing,<br/>it was hoping for a fight. 2026-10-07T14:21:30Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsyq9kmyup3egvtmlz6vmgn55t6w9zvwv85dzg4r6a42pzlxuvdfvgzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgues4ae Composition<br/><br/>As a harsh wind tears<br/>at the mountain&#39;s ancient stone,<br/>the night falls silent;<br/>even as words tear my heart,<br/>the night becomes my refuge.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-10-05T21:05:18Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsw39ry0y3xp9ephug33q7lrx7lx7s0t8w06gw6fefqf4j4udveytczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkge76fdv The Skirrid Inn<br/><br/>Ate here a week or so back. The oldest inn to be found in Wales, apparently. Dates to the 12th Century.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026; CC-BY-NC-ND<br/>These photos are licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License. To view a copy of this license, visit<br/><a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/">http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/</a>.<br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/117/382/381/871/940/932/original/d9f7689a76631fb8.jpg"> <br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/117/382/381/860/695/825/original/221dad852837a5ee.jpg"> <br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/117/382/381/862/168/474/original/dc667d5fba7ee041.jpg"> <br/> 2026-10-04T11:26:27Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsfa82fy950k5s9gnguwz94t394srrzq85t0udrsqeakxnrq7vvgzgzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgl0n7e4 In reply to <a href='/nevent1qqsq3paa7ppud65ln3fr5jnr3a66wvzdnydvtukyzlrdskvp3hykwggtylkd5'>nevent1q…lkd5</a><br/>_________________________<br/><br/>Hmm. There was an unnecessary bitterness in that message. I doubt I would have graced it with a reply, to be honest. 2026-10-04T09:38:43Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsthpw3wzkkjm36tl86yeeeu6cu03y00xz6fmsu504ryrhl0tzte3gzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg4qfz8p The Lost<br/><br/>The year, growing old,<br/>prepares to join its forebears,<br/>fading to nothing;<br/>let it take my memories<br/>into eternal silence.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-09-24T20:19:11Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsg9s4fec246qy866lex0pu03xz7c54pvf0ehs0ktfts93ac8vpxrqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgmjhned #ScribesAndMakers ~23 Choose a noun that is representative of you as a creative person.<br/><br/>Writer 2026-09-23T21:12:28Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs8u6qp4lwc88tu8vxwwfd5mz7tqxcy8kfsvjrkw7ftf5hpaww4vuszyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgrn2kjz #ScribesAndMakers<br/>September 22nd<br/><br/>Promotion day. Self or someone else. Or both.<br/><br/>As I have explained to my employer in the past, I do not seek promotion, for two reasons. Firstly, it is unlikely I would get the job. Secondly, and more importantly, I might get the job.<br/><br/>I find the writing of <span itemprop="mentions" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/Person"><a itemprop="url" href="/npub1a2z3eqn0pnmjd4ccy93fqjnhhq4lwcgge6zuzl0tr6qdc7njvesspw5a5d" class="bg-lavender dark:prose:text-neutral-50 dark:text-neutral-50 dark:bg-garnet px-1"><span>Matthew</span> (<span class="italic">npub1a2z…5a5d</span>)</a></span> &amp; <span itemprop="mentions" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/Person"><a itemprop="url" href="/npub1dy7l96nr5rs05n3k3s73yh4mtpqluqr7uvtrcu99fh95u3vwppfquwa37k" class="bg-lavender dark:prose:text-neutral-50 dark:text-neutral-50 dark:bg-garnet px-1"><span>Michael Anderson</span> (<span class="italic">npub1dy7…a37k</span>)</a></span> leads me into deeper, wilder places. But there are plenty I could, and too many to actually, mention. 2026-09-22T22:16:18Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsdlfv73zr8l62hn0yrqq6j9rajn2ln39a9zlhkcjwuq48vtsncsyqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgt3wd09 #ScribesAndMakers #WritingCommunity <br/><br/>21st Sept 2026. What character from one of your own books or someone else&#39;s would you want to spend a day with? What would you do?<br/><br/>Almustafa, the chosen and the beloved.<br/><br/>You can work out the book for yourselves.<br/><br/>I would sit and listen. 2026-09-21T14:33:08Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsvheydxh909me4h2876ql6gng5q09a6ukp73zv2qwfgug4ll9w4lczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg6gs6gn Ghosts of the Silures<br/><br/>Dark whispers, riding<br/>a soft breeze, through trees grown tired<br/>of Summer, call me;<br/>as if warriors, that walked<br/>these hills, want their stories heard.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-09-20T19:13:10Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsvavf276dsde5ag0c96x3r9pw8fsr2y8klhdfwg0k8u0vhghac9lszyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgsgxdgq #ScribesAndMakers ~18 Change one word in the title of a famous book, a movie, a song, and a play to create four new titles.<br/><br/>Book: A Farewell to Trams<br/>Movie: A Bridge too Fair<br/>Song: Bohemian Raspberry<br/>Play: The Impudence of Being Ernest 2026-09-18T22:04:46Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsv4unrlyr6d7fdvuqwe9gf08cv3lhe6eqak6jajfx223we37k0q6czyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgzlt0y8 #ScribesAndMakers ~15 What&#39;s a situation where you feel a &#39;;&#39; definitely works better than a &#39;.&#39; ?<br/><br/>When writing a question in Greek. [&#34;;&#34; is the Greek &#34;?&#34;] 2026-09-15T20:15:51Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs8ghu7c7cqvprzutchr3h5fexq0mr27e5rr3f2qx8k8phsg58fglczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkglr92l7 #ScribesAndMakers ~14 What&#39;s your favorite type of story setting?<br/><br/>As a writer - none. I do not write stories.<br/><br/>As a reader, I like the setting to be a quiet room and a comfy chair when I encounter a story. 2026-09-14T20:27:25Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsrv54ypl5phgxjjxggg2u4mrmg5cxsrgfmfj2w0uql6kzsstndhgszyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkggskhyp Whispers in the Air<br/><br/>I wait, to hear what<br/>the Wind is trying to say,<br/>speaking to my soul;<br/>but I am so sore, its breath<br/>stings, as it touches my heart.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-09-13T18:56:15Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsz99030z0qf8vfxgnqdpqzm9jd59u7hrk7dy43de79eghj08j3kagzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgh9dacj #ScribesAndMakers ~13 How pedantic are you?<br/><br/>It&#39;s negotiable. How annoying do you want me to be? 2026-09-13T16:13:45Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsfz2d4tnfr40qayu2fxt5aefp3le40mpzuuga8lznlqp562lltt8gzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg8lycxt #ScribesAndMakers September 11: &#34;Our next featured creator is a group of three collaborators. Have you ever been part of a collaborative group for your creative work?&#34;<br/><br/><a href="https://mastodon.sdf.org/@SJAsh_03/116421144794864703">https://mastodon.sdf.org/@SJAsh_03/116421144794864703</a> 2026-09-11T19:18:50Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs9rhet75q6mkwlvgst460wpfg96udp9eeemqdgslwmx5w33x59dfgzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgwpfg50 #ScribesAndMakers <br/><br/>10th Sept 2026. Our next featured creator is an acronym. Do you use acronyms in your work?<br/><br/>Well, Friday is P.O.E.T.S day. 2026-09-10T12:49:34Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsw9swakq0kyhp6a6ljycxzgt26r74uhw8pglnzt27ny3pe99p25sqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg3khej3 #ScribesAndMakers 9/9. Share something you&#39;ve been working on this month.<br/><br/>Writing. 2026-09-09T08:02:01Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsr8962tyyutztdv35xjgv9052n06fux86n99k0p9n505k75vs8f8qzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg4qtqtw Unforgotten<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#SJAshcroftsPoems #poems #poetry #PoetryCommunity #MyWordsMyWork<br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/117/237/796/097/588/909/original/babc82e4c57fac6e.jpg"> <br/> 2026-09-08T22:34:04Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsv9c2xhj53w9sdlhwle4m9ezqwu5n877chmwydne7gjzdxjavurpqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgw2gap4 #scribesandmakers Sep 8 Gauge. <br/><br/>Is this just some random act of sticking a pin in a dictionary page? 2026-09-08T06:41:14Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsq9axsyrsvxu8ptlu4m6ltlh4k90zq4tykazj2yhrult9aet0uvtszyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg0aecj3 #ScribesAndMakers September 7: What &#39;character&#39; (letter, number, symbol, punctuation, space) would make a great main character?<br/><br/>I know of a short play where one of the main characters is the large intestine. Therefore. I have to say, the colon... : 2026-09-07T12:35:40Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqszlc9xhqa7g3ve9mwuc2pc4p4glf0rcjhgxwucp2wwzvsyf03k59gzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgtsp5w9 #ScribesAndMakers 6/9: Have you ever listened to an audiobook where the reader had a good voice, but not the &#39;right&#39; voice?<br/><br/>Never listened to an audiobook - which rather strange term I take to mean &#34;a recording of someone reading a book&#34;. 2026-09-06T10:42:57Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsqe9xe66l4smhhxecxcquu3wthydr7k4u0y4mhf8quhxndeehqalgzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgtt9g5f Burial Grounds<br/><br/>The sky seemed so wide,<br/>as clouds touched the valley sides<br/>where ancient dead lie.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-09-05T21:09:06Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqst8kelcek0g29c0kgegmgszf23vzgdk6lxxcl242rjep0aw2rk0wszyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgg73zhj Degrees<br/><br/>We are cursed to live<br/>through the cremation of hope,<br/>the burning of joy;<br/>a sacrifice to folly<br/>on an altar of profit.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-09-05T20:59:43Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs2gfqs5ltwjtu4gactyz0vxdltvwjcvpcgus7ly7f3qqtcxy3gwqgzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgey7qlj #ScribesAndMakers Sep. 4: Reverse of last month&#39;s question: if e-books stopped being produced, how much would you miss them?<br/><br/>Hardly. I have a few books on a Kobo, mainly to avoid arguments over available shelf space, but I use it rarely. 2026-09-04T12:22:07Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs9akteflgzear3mcyqdxx3jpm8036q7a9utufwc8m3kfl58vvrqdqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg4eftra #ScribesAndMakers 2/9: How do you think where you live affects your creative work? <br/><br/>Well, I write more about rocks, mountains and seas than I do about deserts... 2026-09-02T23:00:25Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs0pg3rndxcw4ca52vfw5zr530ys4ledg4qqrfa6t24pept5j2uh9qzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg8waezh #ScribesAndMakers 1/9: It&#39;s September. List 7 things about your creative pursuits (accomplishments, goals, etc.)<br/><br/>1. Mostly involves typing.<br/>2. C. 50% to 60% of my longer poems are posted.<br/>3. I used to draw.<br/>4. I&#39;ve got my fingers round note positions on the first 13 frets of the mandolin, some major and minor scales and half a dozen melodies.<br/>5. I&#39;ve not had a music lesson – 12 months of YouTube video.<br/>6. I started writing tanka in the last 12 months.<br/>7. Fitting this in 1 post is very creative. 2026-09-01T16:48:20Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsgyfc6swruwjfff490e5e75fkd6yycz952fvklaxr4zpmeqc06yhqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgf3es2y #ScribesAndMakers 28 Aug &#39;Our next featured creator is a pun-slinger. Share a pun.&#39;<br/><br/>I&#39;m not a baker. I have no current puns. 2026-08-28T22:45:45Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs860cgr3gmzrup3xz7xfpxuphxm0g5s8qtd7kaeupmvp33p8ljg6czyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkghflg0w #ScribesAndMakers 27, Tell a story, real or fictional, about an object on your desk/work area.<br/><br/>Some gaze at clear, crystal globes, looking for visions in the odd, distorted reflections. Perhaps, they think the light passing through these balls makes for better augury.<br/><br/>But, it&#39;s in the darkness, the hidden things wait. Behind the clouds that cover the black heart of time. If you dare look beyond the surface of the impenetrable, that is where your soul will scry good and ill.<br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/117/168/309/980/115/649/original/5e253c05ed8ea042.jpg"> <br/> 2026-08-27T16:04:22Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsxnhee78d496u6hv7cuasg36gv2hzduwruuh2m6vg8p54qj5fex6szyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgln2mpd #ScribesAndMakers August 26. Describe how it feels to be &#34;locked in&#34; to your work.<br/><br/>What on earth are you talking about? 2026-08-26T21:23:43Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsgfle85706nyfnt4rggfzr0muus5ejxzsjcl8f5y3dwrass4ykqeczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkguy436y Morning’s Heat<br/><br/>Salmon pink clouds blush<br/>at the ardour of the dawn<br/>to bare her beauty.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-08-23T22:02:39Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsxcsmhzk69txdzsezqzfapy9jhn34xx44qf2htprqjw9jmwplflwczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgkwy8vt Anticipate<br/><br/>Storms are approaching,<br/>holding promises and threats<br/>to cast through the sky;<br/>I will neither fear the wrath,<br/>nor succumb to the desire.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-08-23T22:02:18Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsxfjrk6c2anny9qkync4pw6e8qszdns5x7l23cc0kvcs80wdazewgzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg5hr76f Images<br/><br/>Clouds reshape themselves<br/>in the glow of dusk, to write<br/>verses in the sky.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-08-22T19:11:04Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsvdxjl8wukkxxuq2c930uyg0f3nll556szz6lq5zw47s0whfwyfhszyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgqsqxh8 Hush<br/><br/>The night&#39;s solitude<br/>brings peace like the space between<br/>two estranged lifetimes.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-08-21T22:00:43Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsp53mmk2ze567rrjes5s7aucj2kfrrvngpdq7jvx7ugcxlfxfas7qzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgzhtka3 Settled in with a Sunday night glass of mead – and it is very welcome...<br/><br/>If only I had a drinking horn from which to quaff it. 2026-08-09T19:17:15Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsff56u00cetsuunrfp7lrt53y3zqykdszuvpkf7pq72cypn4xtw2gzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg4eh749 Dispossessed<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#SJAshcroftsPoems #poems #poetry #PoetryCommunity #MyWordsMyWork<br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/117/062/238/848/130/713/original/64c327a8a62d3c35.jpg"> <br/> 2026-08-08T22:27:51Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs22naedgq8gt8u6hzq6sq4gusujn3jtgx80dkejqt4rg5mzqeajzczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgxah90t #ScribesAndMakers <br/><br/>6th Aug 2026. Tell us about a drummer whose work you appreciate.<br/><br/>Well, there was that lad who had a Christmas Carol written about him and his rum-pa-pum-pum. 2026-08-06T14:59:01Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsqsgsk9lf3zk039qcafmdnzxsnchzyfgss5p8n0905u4azx4pr7rqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgnhrmg4 #ScribesAndMakers<br/><br/>5th Aug 2026. What book are you currently reading, or have you finished most recently?<br/><br/>Ο Θεός ή ο Διάβολος κυβερνά τον κόσμο (τρεις ομιλίες του Αγίου Ιωάννου του Χρυσοστόμου).<br/><br/>Not a subject that interests me, but it is good practice for a more literary form of Greek.<br/><br/>Recently finished Χωράει όλη η αρχαιότητα στο ασανσέρ, του Δρ Θεοδώρου Παπακώστα, which was far more entertaining. 2026-08-05T15:41:42Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqswazu43ujtlrdwgtyjjsz3zwfmwjwk9ade70r2nl6h7xej3zsv7nqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg96n7gf Advancing<br/><br/>Mist shrouded the hills<br/>hiding the ghosts that foretell<br/>a dying season;<br/>a year that has learned to weep<br/>as it faces its decline.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-08-04T20:05:52Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsxnysxt7hs4mez3xy4hhd9dactz9vksulh0hj5kwzey2gd6v2tgdqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgz44k3f Spaces<br/><br/>Freedom resides in<br/>the call of the wind, the tide<br/>surging to the shore,<br/>a storm on the horizon,<br/>and the breaking of old bonds.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-07-30T22:30:11Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqspnnp57mng8qfauem3vw85a94swd2q7j44fmksgdqgmwn99fecxlqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgrxjc80 Humid<br/><br/>This summer air clings<br/>to my skin, with the softness<br/>of a silken sheet<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-07-29T22:21:23Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsdz9aeqw8tpg45a6ayxa5v8xyk4xxdu6g4dksv3swrn403rzu5h6qzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgl8mtnh Watersmeet<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#SJAshcroftsPoems #poems #poetry #PoetryCommunity #MyWordsMyWork<br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/116/999/980/507/156/574/original/344b0a57f230d1d5.jpg"> <br/> 2026-07-28T22:34:39Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs9cdnjegpdcpjl3lqkxterwx6na3w8c4ckldvqr3yc9kw6a08qndgzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgtgnad8 Remembrance<br/><br/>The Sea sang to me,<br/>with the voice of the West Wind,<br/>and rhythm of waves;<br/>its verse bore names of the lost,<br/>in sadness of memory.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-07-21T22:35:08Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs0ek93mqlq3j7xhyen0zwqnhugn99gz8jqhqvkclkkkm09gqa5wngzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgy038cy Respite<br/><br/>Seek shade as a shield<br/>and rebirth from grinding heat;<br/>the trees know kindness.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-07-20T15:46:26Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsxgrrhf75z6kn9udnzhv52pxqtqtng7aru3tql2lsr8g3jlj0slyczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkghpf943 Prisoner<br/><br/>The heaviest chains<br/>we use to shackle ourselves,<br/>and fear to break them.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-07-04T23:09:38Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqstcmmlse8vx9flr3gsl8met2pv4fd39vvwjhjt3gufz2mqnv94sfgzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgfuxr6d Summer Sky<br/><br/>This sky, bright with sun<br/>or black as velvet, carries<br/>no word of kindness.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-07-03T19:57:31Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs9yx06lplqtdmwfr4rpu6ac293df5epnppvdf78s0g6v7lrumaltgzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgrjjdfw Thread<br/><br/>Each word, each action,<br/>leads only to destruction<br/>of deepest desires;<br/>the Fates spin, and laugh<br/>at the hubris of our hopes.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-07-03T19:52:38Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsx99ffsu4execfsuchlwzm2cugytxqrtv9uxq757nj78d27ym7ruczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgk9xml5 In reply to <a href='/nevent1qqsxsdavgu4xuuflgfqzyasnlffnzq885dv7n3pdacjyh350amv80gsx7dnkk'>nevent1q…dnkk</a><br/>_________________________<br/><br/>A colleague (non-smoker) acquired a pipe. He called it his &#34;thinking pipe&#34;. I suspect it may have been to annoy his wife.<br/><br/>I mentioned this to my family. My son thought it a good idea, so bought me a pipe. It occurred to me that sucking air through a dry peppermint teabag would give a pleasant, though delicate, mint taste. It did.<br/><br/>So, I have a mint flavoured thinking pipe. It is strangely comforting... 2026-07-03T16:50:38Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs22mtvmsu0jnjgypmlgmy8u4kkna79y68t452edujt3yrgqv4pv3szyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgz007fs #ScribesAndMakers 3 July: We have some new people in the community. Re/Introduce yourself and tell us about your creative work.<br/><br/>I&#39;m an oddity. Welsh, but learning Greek. Lawyer who writes what may be poetry. Non-smoker who sucks a pipe with a peppermint teabag in the bowl. Alleged poet, who has 3 books on the market, and does virtually no marketing.<br/><br/>&#34;... a walking contradiction,<br/>Partly truth and partly fiction,<br/>Taking every wrong direction<br/>On his lonely way back home.&#34;<br/>[Kris Kristoffersen] 2026-07-03T13:55:34Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs8uve76w5pe4lms5uy3elrslw4ewalgshkcc3kh748v84mdxwv4tqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg747tzs Deafened<br/><br/>I have heard too much,<br/>and am too long a witness,<br/>of proud assurance;<br/>now, let me hear the wind sing,<br/>heedless of its own beauty.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-06-28T22:08:22Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs2s9cujpecdhn39rmjaqq64tdw6fgwgdu98angwegwf5euu3t584qzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgcg5zsl Demand of Blood<br/><br/>Cliffs, blood-red with sand<br/>of ancient deserts, crumble<br/>into hungry sea.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-06-23T19:41:36Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsf8prkmte29hqaxumx6a0puw9mm30me0jt9dj7gt0myt898sa8v4szyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgtgwp2x Frozen in Time<br/><br/>Even summer nights<br/>are cold, as the years became<br/>frigid and helpless.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-06-12T22:08:50Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsqtecn3a5m74x33t0au3t6x8uq6svw748vs7j7umsxuulfd9qck7szyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgkrjh79 Benediction<br/><br/>Days fulfil their course<br/>to a conclusion always<br/>inevitable;<br/>may the Gods bless your pathway<br/>to a life when stars align.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-06-05T20:02:22Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs9ljx0pste23k6rjl8mj5qds4eejw0a2hcprc870p398epk8kx20szyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkge034q9 Title pages and poems of my 3 volumes:<br/>&#34;Remnants,&#34; &#34;A Deeper Sky&#34; and &#34;Lost Trails&#34;<br/><br/>Physical copies and Kindle via Amazon:<br/><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Simon-J-Ashcroft/author/B0DY6H6CTB?ref=pd_sl_746c73d4e6d4010704a2e27c3d9ca731_e&amp;cat_id=7238&amp;hvcampaign=116733&amp;hvadtype=1&amp;hvdev=desktop&amp;hvpub=1018&amp;appid=1018&amp;l=1&amp;tag=uktextadsdes-21">https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Simon-J-Ashcroft/author/B0DY6H6CTB?ref=pd_sl_746c73d4e6d4010704a2e27c3d9ca731_e&amp;cat_id=7238&amp;hvcampaign=116733&amp;hvadtype=1&amp;hvdev=desktop&amp;hvpub=1018&amp;appid=1018&amp;l=1&amp;tag=uktextadsdes-21</a><br/><br/>Also Rakuten Kobo:<br/><a href="https://www.kobo.com/gb/en/search?query=simon+j+ashcroft&amp;ac=1&amp;acp=simon+j+ashcroft&amp;ac.author=simon+j+ashcroft&amp;sort=Temperature&amp;fclanguages=en&amp;ssId=JJ0VEGUcKqUkzlXop-PFl&amp;sId=29ffdb90-b45b-483b-86f0-f6a0a95bb589">https://www.kobo.com/gb/en/search?query=simon+j+ashcroft&amp;ac=1&amp;acp=simon+j+ashcroft&amp;ac.author=simon+j+ashcroft&amp;sort=Temperature&amp;fclanguages=en&amp;ssId=JJ0VEGUcKqUkzlXop-PFl&amp;sId=29ffdb90-b45b-483b-86f0-f6a0a95bb589</a><br/><br/>&#34;A Distant Light&#34; - 8 poem collaboration with Yasmin Khan available as free download here:<br/><a href="https://fie.nl.tab.digital/apps/files/files/16105613?dir=/A%20Distant%20Light%20%28all%20formats%29">https://fie.nl.tab.digital/apps/files/files/16105613?dir=/A%20Distant%20Light%20%28all%20formats%29</a><br/><br/>#SJAshcroftsPoems #poems #poetry #PoetryCommunity #IndieAuthor<br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/116/668/691/831/699/803/original/0cba91a2cec43b4f.jpg"> <br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/116/668/692/816/547/458/original/0fe1ced1a258bb52.jpg"> <br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/116/668/693/949/733/087/original/be544b12011dc351.jpg"> <br/> 2026-05-31T10:38:52Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs2jlgdslrvfz6jvppyjmttczc3r8r0xypqnmqdk3xnh7qgl73r5aszyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg5asav6 Route<br/><br/>There is no path<br/>through the rain.<br/>No gilded sunlight<br/>on the fabled uplands<br/>of vanity&#39;s dream.<br/>No route to avoid<br/>the breaking storm,<br/>nor light sufficient<br/>to reach into<br/>the recesses<br/>carved by pain<br/>in a heart that&#39;s lived<br/>too many lives.<br/>Only the tired grimace<br/>of a face<br/>worn and weary, hoping<br/>to find the one road<br/>that matters,<br/>though not having<br/>any map<br/>to show the pass<br/>it takes<br/>through the mountains.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#SJAshcroftsPoems #poems #poetry #PoetryCommunity #MyWordsMyWork 2026-05-23T22:18:26Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsvdtflz0xuvk0pjvyq8elew80s8cd5q9ujuwx93ay3cvt85l9pjtqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgaj79gv Speech<br/><br/>Old Gods were never<br/>robbed of their voices, although<br/>their oracles closed;<br/>close your eyes and hear them speak<br/>with words borne on wind and dreams.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-05-23T21:20:14Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs9xn3qf052nzytxh6a8wrnhqvxz4grd70hwst0s59sm9j8fpna24gzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgzgtc27 Peace<br/><br/>Night has claimed daylight,<br/>enclosing me in the dark<br/>and silence I craved.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-05-06T22:08:07Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsv5rd7wj8rh7zsfx6umtrcc8gvjs76d6ju7vdtzy8t05224fgwu6gzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg94zh6q #ScribesAndMakers № 5 Have you ever worked with collage?<br/><br/>I spent a good few years in college<br/><br/>Oh, hang on a moment... 🤔 2026-05-05T19:17:37Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsdcjhezxw9qetxc7q9nhr8mz48pknznltl0qf5rauwdg9d0jd7w7gzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg4wzuh6 Morning<br/><br/>On the mountain&#39;s head<br/>a ghostly forest appears<br/>from an ancient mist.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-05-04T16:04:22Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs0rp8r65ndjmhggldvgmyrmfh4skmp9fv2fk5e4g7nsf4c5wekz4qzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgcn9vt9 Air<br/><br/>These hills hold legends<br/>of heroes and druids, lost<br/>in the clouds&#39; shadows.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-04-17T22:01:40Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsp776dmgclpm5xejv4vxtjtj9u5khlt3k4aznl0yh3h9fq9mgurtgzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg633pnh &#34;A Distant Light&#34; – a short, 8 poem, collaboration between myself and poet, Yasmin Khan, is available as a free e-book here:<br/><br/><a href="https://fie.nl.tab.digital/s/KzWjboSfgcmqxeJ">https://fie.nl.tab.digital/s/KzWjboSfgcmqxeJ</a><br/><br/>There are 3 versions – PDF, a single document e-pub created via Libre Office, and an e-pub folder created via Calibre.<br/><br/>#poems #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-04-17T17:08:10Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsrd5elhnut863awjd5t5f9y4klt7e4vek7ung40vtjeujxzkdr8vqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg4jexqx Longing<br/><br/>I need to feel air <br/>against my face, and hear waves<br/>sing desire for land.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-04-16T22:19:52Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs8qmgp5s0qrylj2asf20a5cf63pgmvvef3tyjwsuc5t09vp2vcfeczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgaeve7l Standing Stones<br/><br/>Stones, set in the earth,<br/>resist frost and heat, to speak<br/>with ancient accents.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-04-07T20:04:58Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsyx7c5ywyyhrfu9zj2ltfuz9h4smncm8wxk8h8xjhhxyjmkjhprpszyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgjj569c We Walk Alone<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#SJAshcroftsPoems #poems #poetry #PoetryCommunity #MyWordsMyWork<br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/116/348/430/759/456/982/original/c37ea330ec6845c0.jpg"> <br/> 2026-04-04T20:59:22Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsw2d5pe49vqf54cs0gqf8xnzpnxejnx3ne6tuel4zusv8s0cmh0vgzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg9dnev6 In reply to <a href='/nevent1qqswyr6zsr3l7vuf9vekcqwcs768y0nlwhtd8p02tql294w83ukdf9swuwn4n'>nevent1q…wn4n</a><br/>_________________________<br/><br/>You know,I always get this strange urge, when I see pansies, to tickle them under the chin.<br/><br/>Not that I am in any way odd, of course... 2026-04-02T19:45:03Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsqfnu3vnwt9vuw6htwhxhw745xztnu5aq629j44ztcspuumxweqnqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgtatxt3 Conflict<br/><br/>I know fire and ice,<br/>as they rage within my soul, <br/>both undefeated;<br/>flames remain unquenched, and yet<br/>I cannot melt frozen shards.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-03-30T22:19:43Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsphtqjntzcq5cymvkvku3755cw227y2g2nf70h0j36l3wsdm3kfyszyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg6u68es Cloudless<br/><br/>If only my heart<br/>was clear as cold night, but warm<br/>as relentless light<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-03-28T21:57:07Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqstclq7sysepzyh2q33n63qmsde5mp376kp4qqef8clquryus3hycszyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgmfdyh6 Imprisoned<br/><br/>Mist descends, again,<br/>and a biting wind returns,<br/>driving warmth away;<br/>this year, Winter refuses<br/>to release me to Spring&#39;s care.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-03-24T18:11:13Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsyj6jsu8ld6kxvmkdsjz2u2mmg58e2ljzwpufc7ga3asg0ycpll3qzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgsll3d7 Invoke<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#SJAshcroftsPoems #poems #poetry #PoetryCommunity #MyWordsMyWork #pagan<br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/116/218/941/627/649/419/original/e1095225c3e9d883.jpg"> <br/> 2026-03-13T00:06:34Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs07xn8s304dge6jd639fwchqtvl2prcwx373qrcq6ft2y60jsmleqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgew2gzv Dissolution<br/><br/>Cists on the mynydd,<br/>long since collapsed into earth,<br/>hold secrets as ghosts.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-03-11T23:22:01Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsqwv03vvj7s98zn3t84kmh5zf6gupdu90g3vyd8nx37gs66hv9ndszyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkge790za Polemic<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#SJAshcroftsPoems #poems #poetry #PoetryCommunity #MyWordsMyWork<br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/116/193/494/993/212/736/original/dca502024236fc94.jpg"> <br/> 2026-03-08T12:15:34Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs2hjy6rpkp6wz96tuq04fqu9ek4kxnfw2xmc8n446n7edel5ry2sqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgcqvknq Tired<br/><br/>I am so weary<br/>of dancing shadows, that flee<br/>into the darkness.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-03-07T23:42:08Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs093ten3eetvwakr6qyhnlh0a675aker9ud9pyq68tlk9v9a5yhggzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgss8mdj In reply to <a href='/nevent1qqs93uvzyq2hhqqjg9usmp242vtthe9tugcf3aadkq0864s8undn44cl0axmk'>nevent1q…axmk</a><br/>_________________________<br/><br/>Another snort of catnip and you really will be flying...<br/><video controls width="100%" class="max-h-[90vh] bg-neutral-300 dark:bg-zinc-700"><source src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/116/171/532/668/878/615/original/1fc4e2345e7eb5ef.mp4"></video><br/> 2026-03-04T15:09:53Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsxs4j76d6u0fh7hmj22x8fpch4c7ugfnxwwmlkykwc0sjzyh305zgzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgehzgsn In reply to <a href='/nevent1qqs9z7w5g8v5ez47ur59tma36elle9xeqfztkzrty8kn4k2l4nup3tsyvgxng'>nevent1q…gxng</a><br/>_________________________<br/><br/>That would be a bit like choosing to build your own car as a preferred method of transport.<br/><br/>Try it. Let us all know if it gets you airborne... 2026-03-04T14:45:40Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs8t6vpxy72m45lulpnrq7gmxyt98kknnx2jlduhgfsu9wphw94d9czyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgkdggcs In reply to <a href='/nevent1qqsvedqwzm85dsv0quztgsu8na7hk8t0gjna9aj9hs880rf8mllggmgfllqse'>nevent1q…lqse</a><br/>_________________________<br/><br/>Lydia in the Sky with Dæmons? 2026-03-04T14:40:08Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs9pwut9un8pz7a7dzvzdhr7uac9x9wt4ncjx30re6fkzh460kgq6czyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg043vyd In reply to <a href='/nevent1qqsfsx5rpady0zp236fhyhx0medtg87z2rncv8vdq3576k3wxldxvkqkjf923'>nevent1q…f923</a><br/>_________________________<br/><br/>Do you type faster on catnip? 2026-03-04T14:37:19Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsgngf8vn9vzfuss9t8u9rtqrq53e7kc0xztlmkf8nqd6sfslm02zczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgdj9zkx In reply to <a href='/nevent1qqsqag35d7etw5mnwhucll6jfndcxykxu42py0wkp95cjc4mp7ds0ac4wtasc'>nevent1q…tasc</a><br/>_________________________<br/><br/>I can&#39;t really help as I do not write stories, but...<br/><br/>I now have a mental image of you disappearing into your own computer screen in a mad frenzy of editing.<br/><video controls width="100%" class="max-h-[90vh] bg-neutral-300 dark:bg-zinc-700"><source src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/116/171/283/326/987/300/original/b6537f9a7299f3b6.mp4"></video><br/> 2026-03-04T14:06:32Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsq2jx43cndjfr7qnca4428t5la52rda59mr3pt7vukpqnpumhha6gzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkghypshu Unending<br/><br/>Through all ages, from<br/>the first cataclysmic flame<br/>until all light dies,<br/>we cannot escape the ties<br/>that bind us in the darkness.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-03-03T21:05:26Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsvpd22cuckhje0avtzmlv83cvclmfcq56nmj4sarspwskgfkedmzszyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgqx9vgt The Calling<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#SJAshcroftsPoems #poems #poetry #PoetryCommunity #MyWordsMyWork<br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/116/153/888/275/143/299/original/d9e30844d98e61e7.jpg"> <br/> 2026-03-01T12:21:44Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsgf6cee6rry9pzm58txm00cumky6fc0ergrp8gcnm0lls03u86u6czyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgrd5w7v Entrenched<br/><br/>Our enemy stands<br/>with feet firmly planted on<br/>ground we cannot reach;<br/>a hidden fortress, flying<br/>the colours of our own blood.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-02-23T22:33:59Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsyvwl9tpyd79lkrx2dmxxrde6jlhf4rhc9zc7eu6cp0e59gh6xhfczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg8mfdut Lords<br/><br/>May those who advance<br/>a claim to power, choke on<br/>their corrupt vomit.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2025<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-02-23T22:09:25Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsvd04ldzcc0ydm0s26y4yp8rz4fzr8zfm0z09k04jwktjcnskf3vgzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgkuwwfw In reply to <a href='/nevent1qqs2x6rjqvww2kyurlcgzlpg56r0yxd6nlsltjfh3n5tfxat735pgqqxa3kw6'>nevent1q…3kw6</a><br/>_________________________<br/><br/>There is never a good age at which to lose a parent. You will work out how to carry this loss, though it will never leave you, I suspect. All the best. 2026-02-23T21:38:02Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs8jlkdufcxf67fzq5xvnkpgdxhf8pzq828zdpptuac5smmuartexczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg2wt6jk Moment<br/><br/>Water flows over<br/>broken stones in the afon;<br/>no drop will return.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-02-22T21:03:15Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqswl70cax3rmfy5h4ta4a22f3zeywttslp9vhzvsdskng3lekzjh8gzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgvq9836 Incendiary<br/><br/>Let hope be a matchstick:<br/>ready to strike a faint light;<br/>able to burn worlds.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-02-19T23:25:05Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqszp2ur252y2e6j0ayfz08q7ms3d6m0nm4w8gtr9ghlrnj8q6jaj5gzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgwtznwp Round<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#SJAshcroftsPoems #poems #poetry #PoetryCommunity #MyWordsMyWork<br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/116/094/338/915/716/360/original/9b8f1b29f23e4dc9.jpg"> <br/> 2026-02-18T23:58:06Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqspe284f0f45hkwwx8fg2cuf90cngc2p4xadhycpj3ecrmmjd6x5uczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgkfvxkm Faun, Belladonna<br/><br/>&#34;Wayfarer, rest with me in the garden of Hekate&#34;<br/><br/><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=aB5zFHkNqhM">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=aB5zFHkNqhM</a><br/><br/>#Faun #Belladonna #Hekate 2026-02-11T23:49:13Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsxvywlfe5sehsfugfp8mqht5jlmqvvgxp7ljlgvnehstdlm05fk0gzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgquw2tv Faun, Drei Tage<br/><br/>Zwölf lange Nächte dreht sich das Rad.<br/>Im Traum umfängt mich was einst war<br/><br/>Twelve long nights the wheel turns.<br/>In dreams, what once was embraces me<br/><br/><a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ebOMbbYizF8">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ebOMbbYizF8</a><br/><br/>#Faun #DreiTage 2026-02-02T23:39:50Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs9ect70urgv0pfda2lpxfh7f8et0sketrkar2qaf2txf4p52vvmqczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkghx3u94 Rider<br/><br/>My heart is ready<br/>to take flight on the wild winds,<br/>in search of lost dreams;<br/>and if they remain hidden,<br/>may I be lost in the hunt.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-02-02T22:36:26Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsws5zq649mue04vj63yhvhvd875h70ktx082njfaw7gyzvjttcx2szyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgg39kx3 Castaway<br/><br/>I&#39;m shipwrecked in time,<br/>unable to reach the shore<br/>of my forever.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#haiku #senryu #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-01-28T21:07:22Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsqnzqxyaswsm6gf3dyycjus23ycsn3axcmqgrlvqezddpu886a7kczyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgu8a5x4 In reply to <a href='/nevent1qqs07cc65qx6y6yvvkn80yfwh846rr0gxqn9n27z7ktmhxjgtsy3pcgm7ymky'>nevent1q…ymky</a><br/>_________________________<br/><br/>Very sorry for your loss. 2026-01-28T19:52:40Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqspfl4y9x6pnvyfk37nl78l9ec5ukn7p7mfytq2zykpacnpucyeppszyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgu3vw8p In reply to <a href='/nevent1qqsqjf6a53vzc3s4hqrr2w862z6w0v57xtlklq6lhmgpu99r08r9pcggkqpyq'>nevent1q…qpyq</a><br/>_________________________<br/><br/>I&#39;ve heard various suggestions as to tonal differences or alterations in breathing. The reality is that we have no recordings and any of our speculations are likely wrong.<br/><br/>Modern Greek tends to concentrate on stress, but how far that has ancient precedent strikes me as supposition.<br/><br/> [@Cat_LeFey](<a href="https://pagan.plus/@Cat_LeFey">https://pagan.plus/@Cat_LeFey</a> ) 2026-01-23T22:45:17Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsfx9m9ltjvgj74kutnjxr8wjk483qu7dz5zfgwtw03yd4fkzxdleqzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgf7tnuz In reply to <a href='/nevent1qqsydrdvszdaej8ysxregfhlrwpqfh4mepp45ldr6h5ngwr7nkr4uqgayn0fy'>nevent1q…n0fy</a><br/>_________________________<br/><br/>If you need a guide to the alphabet and pronunciation, I can help. It&#39;ll be the modern version – but no-one really knows what the ancients sounded like...! 2026-01-23T19:53:20Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsddswvxqu5we3atcempdk7t47scxdma63evv7zms9srydasmvp8tszyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkghv78nr Sometimes<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#SJAshcroftsPoems #poems #poetry #PoetryCommunity #MyWordsMyWork<br/> <img src="https://mastodon.sdf.org/system/media_attachments/files/115/945/715/593/911/214/original/362318e221ea4f0f.jpg"> <br/> 2026-01-23T18:02:03Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqst8enu34xzw9ja9pxkadzsmm527snevu5vx3wwr3q7rjvmhv9hd9czyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgvavnr7 In reply to <a href='/nevent1qqs889mvde75lksxvzp6g9xjpvls6knedynlurptf3662p8xwpsfk2q2qf28q'>nevent1q…f28q</a><br/>_________________________<br/><br/>Other.<br/><br/>I use Greek. Just the current version.<br/><br/>Same language, after all. 2026-01-23T17:57:50Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqs044vg53h5g92r79qt6ta2d9uclxsvzpgp3rsexkg38679xrgrmzgzyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkg6mhu96 Faithless<br/><br/>I will not worship,<br/>nor disrespect the Old Gods<br/>with meaningless faith;<br/>we share a spirit of life<br/>that never bows as a slave.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-01-21T22:36:39Z https://nostr.now/nevent1qqsy8cjgd9mtlvurev9v86ws8tu402j6g55jfdxd6agpzhas88se0zszyrt32ntg3tyv0gw2j88eves54wnd8a25vkycd39zum4th4laukdkgmrmx5n Hiker<br/><br/>Walking paths long since<br/>overgrown with thorns, I know<br/>I don’t belong here;<br/>yet I search for part of me<br/>so lost, in this wasteland.<br/><br/>© Simon J Ashcroft, 2026<br/><br/>#tanka #poem #poetry #PoetryCommunity 2026-01-19T14:29:14Z