Homecoming - David Gilbert

He never told us he was off to watch
the migrant birds return above the Isle
or the nature of his homecoming. Or why
after witnessing those storming millions
fan across the sky ˆ a white raucous mist ˆ
he doused the car, sat back and struck a match
as the terns flocked over the lonely beach
and the ocean lit up like a sunset.
It got us neighbours talking, but not too much,
as we don‚t know each other well enough
to say more than words that stop. Like ‘Un
believable’. Or invite each other in
for anything more than tea and biscuits, but
we sent a donation to the RSPB
and wonder if whoever moves in upstairs
will be as quiet or mind small children.

Creative Routes is an important and dynamic organisation and this poetry competition deserves the strong support of everyone interested in writing; I'm greatly looking forward to reading the entries
Andrew Motion, Poet Laureate

The artistic relationship and dialogue between Creative Routes and the Young Vic creates new adventurous ways of working and new pieces of work. I hope that our relationship with Creative Routes continues to showcase this remarkable group's talents and views. DAVID LAN.

Now the ultimate winner and runner up will be judged in the Little Big Top and the BonkersFest Laureate crowned
BONKERSFEST! LAUREATE