February’s Stories and Poems

February’s selection of Stories and Poems feature choices that span from the 13th century to the present day, with themes that may well feel relevant in one way or another as we continue to live through challenging times.

In this month’s prose choices we meet two young men who are dealing with difficult emotions and are trying to find ways to confront them, one on his own and the other seeking advice from a respected mentor. Elsewhere, people are coming to terms with loss and periods of change, as the fact remains that change is something that cannot be avoided.

February’s stories and extracts are:

'Who Switched My Country' from The Hunger Angel by Herta Muller

'Letter 8' from Letters to a Young Poet by Rainer Maria Rilke (translated by M. D. Herter Norton)

'His Smile' by Susan Glaspell

Dombey and Son (extract) by Charles Dickens

'Light' by Lesley Nneka Arimah

A special thanks to Claire in London for recommending the Lesley Nneka Arimah story, which has some 'surprise pleasures' in store.

A need to explore, both through looking at the past and heading in new directions, is evident in February's poetry selections, which might chime close to home as we feel somewhat restricted. We also think about letting things go and enjoying what we have, rather than trying to do too much, and, as it is February, the question of love - and what forms it may take - is also in the air.

'Unharvested' by Robert Frost

'Heart of Exile: Looking for Kwaku' by Bernardine Evaristo

'O Tell Me The Truth About Love' by W.H. Auden

'Moonlight' by Sara Teasdale

'Seeking the Source' by Rumi (translated by Nader Khalili)