Norwich Library

You couldn’t even say it was local,
This library a 40-minute walk away,
When another’s closer by half the
Time, and yet to be visited. This one,
Here, at the centre of the city, by
The market, halfway up a rare hill,
Opposite the castle, has so many
Huge open spaces where the calm
Can spread its balm even amongst
The chatter of the excited and helpless,
And chip away at the sharp edges of
Doubt and disappointment and despair.
It is a home, although they probably
Wouldn’t let you sleep here from
One day to the next. It’s local of sorts,
Because it is of this city and for this city.

R 30/12/2025 14:19 Norwich Library