Tess Jacobs

Philip Smith

Philip and I have worked together for many years, as writing, and mainly poetry, buddies. We have offered critiques, some accepted, some not, and helped with the editing of each others’ books. In 2017 we produced 168 Miles Between Stanzas, each contributing half the poems. In 2020 he produced his book Wingspan-Encounters with Birds.

I asked Philip to choose a poem from 168 Miles, and two from Wingspan. I was delighted when he chose the full version of The Charcoal Burners, which is quoted elsewhere on this website. Philip is an exceptional avian poet and his choices from Wingspan, The Grey Wagtail, Little Grebes on Basingstoke Canal, The Curlew and Turnstones, splendidly showcase his skill.

Read Philips work