Poetry is a fascinating use of language. With almost a million words at its command it is not surprising that these Isles have produced some of the most beautiful, moving and descriptive verse through the centuries. In this series we look at special days of celebration through the eyes and minds of our most gifted poets to bring you a guide to the days within each. The role of Fathers has changed much over the course of centuries. Men are now better suited to a role of co-parent in this modern age rather than the stilted, slightly aloof figure of times past. Being a Father is, of course, both a blessing and a burden. This modern day parenting in a frenetic fast changing world has to be both learnt and adapted from some inner well of memory from generations past as well as on the job experience. How to combine both the tenderness of love and support of modern views with the age old virtues of strength and leadership brings many difficulties to most men. Surprisingly then that poets have given Fathers both a courageous view of life as well as a dependability to be there for their children. In success or failure we can identify with their hopes and dreams. In this collection many of our greatest poets express their worded opinions of that unique role of Fatherhood—whether as one themselves or as a child reaching for that same mantle. It's a difficult role for most men to assume and to keep perspective with but do you know any Father who is not ready to accept the challenge? Or any son and daughter not willing to acknowledge that unique and binding bond?
Many of the poems are also available as an audiobook from our sister company Portable Poetry. The full volume can be purchased from iTunes, Amazon and other digital stores. Among the readers are Tim Graham and Ghizela Rowe.
