In Memoriam for Philip Edward THOMAS

I heard Myfanwy talking on a TV programme about her father's poem about her. At the time of first reading it, she was cross, because he writes that he won't give her anything. But later in life she realised his true meaning: she didn't need anything, because she was perfect.
I was fifteen at the time, and lived not far from Steep.
When I was in my early forties I discovered Helen's extraordinary books, and went on a little pilgrimage to all the local sites that she mentioned.
Now I will search for Myfanwy's writing... God bless you all

My father, who was born in Sheffield in 1924, but who emigrated to New Zealand in 1948, loved poetry and "Adlestrop" was one of his favourite poems. I remember once we talked about how when you hear one blackbird, and listen carefully, you can hear another and another into the farthest distances of your hearing. I found this page because I had posted "Adlestrop" on my Facebook page yesterday along with a bit of information about Edward Thomas, and found myself exploring much further. As I said on my page "For me this poem conjures up the stillness and peace of a pre-war, idyllic, warm, English summer afternoon in a quiet backwater of time." It is lovely to see these photos and this page. Thank you very much for sharing them Zoe, wherever you are. Carol Sawyer, Wanaka, NZ

After having read Edward's work at college 40 years ago - he was the first poet to give poetry a meaning for me, I have recently discovered Helen's beautiful, sensitive writing. Heart breaking, simple and so beautifully clear, it is the best thing I read for years. Then finally, Myfanwy's work which had so clearly painted the life after Edward. What a wonderful talented family. Thank you all. Simon Stiles