Entry from Elizabeth Horrocks

A Valentine’s poetry competition for lovers of history

A poll will run from 4–12 February to choose the winner, who will be announced on Valentine’s Day.

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Love Poem to Will S

I am your humble servant, splendid Will.

I’ve loved you in the book and on the stage;

gasped at your brilliance and thus drunk my fill

of your ability to show us rage,

despair or sorrow; most of all the love

which flourishes – thoughtful, gentle dove –

with your embracing everyone. No heaping coals

of fire upon the worst of mankind’s race:

you empathise and watch and write it down,

with humour, understanding and such grace

that all of us, in village, city, town,

across the continents remark upon it…

For lovely Will I write this humble sonnet

Elizabeth Horrocks

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To celebrate Valentine’s Day, we’re delighted to announce a brand new writing competition created especially for fans of Jodi Taylor.

This time, we’re inviting you to put pen to paper and compose a Valentine’s Day poem addressed to a famous person from history. The poem can be romantic, witty, heartfelt or mischievous, but it must include rhyming couplets. Submissions close on Saturday, 31st January, after which all entries will be published on Jodi's social media for readers to enjoy. The winner will be chosen through a public poll held between 1st and 13th February, and announced on 14th February. As a lasting keepsake, the winner will receive a beautifully framed copy of their poem.

CLICK HERE to submit your edited and formatted entry in Word document form.

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