The breakthrough is to stop thinking
about aerodynamics. Concentrate
on the immeasurable pleasures
of floating above roofs
and the open mouths of chimney pots
stems of road budding
houses, the rumple of fields
and, beyond, the dark spot of a copse
or how the river feels
up into its tree-lined tributaries.
And later, after that first step
into space
the art of soaring on thermals
of passing over boundaries
a sense of north.
David Underdown
‘The secret of flying’ is the opening poem from David Underdown’s new collection from Cinnamon Press. Its final line provides the title. You can hear David read from his new book at the free launch event in Corrie and Sannox Village Hall at 2.30 on Sunday 17th March.