The espalier tree with its rosy apples, arms outstretched –
a kind of crucifixion.
If the espalier could walk, it would walk as stiffly,
as painfully as we might –
for weeks, months, even long tough years.
But these apples in their autumn glory on their natural
and unnatural fence!
Apples with a bright, citrussy flavour – children
of Cox’s for late storage.
So promisingly named Winter Gem.
[See also: The NS Poem: Full of flint]
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This article appears in the 05 Dec 2024 issue of the New Statesman, Christmas and New Year Special 2024