https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/paintings/NG6574
Tuonela – The Silent Island The silence is inscrutable. The water holds its breath and all attention fastens on the island, the fortress, the seat of judgement and of justice. The time is past for gestures and fine speeches. The mountains crowd around but the word is out. The island holds onto itself and nothing escapes. The word is neither innocence or guilt. The lake keeps its secrets in the clamour of the wind. It is not the island’s fault if men don’t understand
Edward Alport is a retired teacher and international business executive and proud Essex Boy. He currently occupies his time as a poet, gardener and writer. He has had poetry, articles and stories and other material published in various webzines and magazines and performed on BBC Radio and Edinburgh Fringe. His Bluesky handle is @crossmouse.bsky.social. His website is crossmouse.wordpress.com
