Zoe Cannell is the sixth poet from the Isle of man to be named as the Manx Bard

Well, it has been a while since I have been asked to write a column for the Manx Independent. Having submitted poems in 2019/2020, I took a break to allow my fellow Manx Bards to have the opportunity to showcase their most excellent and diverse poetic work.

I have had a much-interrupted tenure as Manx Bard, with a number of cancellations and disappointments, stemming from the impact of Covid-19, as experienced by everyone and everything internationally.

But with six months left to serve, I strive to make the rest of my time as successful as possible.

December was a very busy month for me and I was delighted to have taken part in six enjoyable events, including the Organ Donation Memorial Service, the SS Ellan Vannin Service of Remembrance and the reawakening of the Orrisdale Chapel. These were all dear to me and I met some special people at them.

The idea for this month’s poem originated in a phone call with my friend, Sarah Kelly.

We had fun saying how easy it is to avoid others whilst wearing a facial mask.

As I was thinking about the topic, I could see there are many other hidden benefits, although naturally I am delighted and thankful that we have recently seen a return to our normal liberties here on our wonderful Isle of Man.

At this point, I would like to pay tribute to my Mother, Lynda Cannell, who sadly died on January 18 after years of health difficulties. My Mother was always my inspiration in all areas of my life and especially in my writing.

She helped me with my Guild performances. I would tease her about her precise ’TT Timing’. I’d say ’please just check I’m within 5 minutes’ and she would answer ’You were 4 minutes, 36. 2 seconds!’

I miss her so much. Her guidance and humour. I hope that she and my Father Geoff are looking down. I certainly know that they are giving me the impetus to carry on.

I am kindly supported by the Isle of Man Arts Council to serve the Manx Community. Please feel free to contact me on [email protected] if you feel I can be of assistance to you, or a group you belong to.