Fairies and Fusiliers

A vibrant collection of poems that blends the whimsy of fairy lore with the gritty reality of World War I infantry life. The poet moves fluidly between the gentle sparkle of mythic beings and the stark, mud‑filled trenches, creating a voice that feels both mischievous and solemn. Through vivid pictures of sunsets over wine‑laden towns and the relentless clatter of rifles, the book invites listeners to hear the paradox of beauty and brutality coexisting in the same moment.

Among the pieces are raw letters to loved ones, rousing chants to comrades, and playful engagements with classical heroes, all stitched together with a wry, often irreverent tone. The poet’s reflections on duty, pride, and the absurdity of conflict echo the voices of soldiers who returned home for the fourth time, offering a humanizing glimpse into camaraderie forged in mud and rain. Listeners will find the blend of lyricism and battlefield grit both grounding and strangely uplifting, making the work feel like an intimate conversation across time.