Seven Questions about the Journey

We have commissioned a new piece of writing from fifty leading authors on the theme of 'Elsewhere' - read on for Don Paterson's contribution.

Why are we leaving in such unreadiness?

- Your name was last.

Is it too late to call?  Is there still time to confess?

- The moment's passed.

If the weather is stormy, should we go nonetheless?

 - None forecast.

Where are our dogs and our horses? Can you guess?

- Slain. Shot. Gassed.

How will we know when we reach our new address?

- Heed the blast.

How do we look in our fine new leaving-dress?

- Alone. Aghast. 

Where are we going, so light and riderless? 

- Nowhere. Fast

More writing