13/06/2025
Sonnet NE29
by Raine Rutherford
Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?
Thou art more rainy and less temperate.
When thinking of wistful things to say,
the attempt becomes rather desperate.
Though how do I love thee? Despite the trepidations.
Growing up in such a dreary old place
has so widened my imagination.
The crashing coasts to the metro station,
the homely hearths for intoxication,
my town’s eyes are nothing like the sun,
but I would not have it any different.
I love your skies pale and your river dun.
You are rough, soft, new and old,
You hold stories so rich, waiting to be told.
—
We’ve included local poetry in every single issue of I Love North Shields — and this one’s no different. 💙
It’s so important to champion the creatives in our town. Thanks to we’ve been able to feature some truly beautiful work — like this brilliant poem by Raine Rutherford.
If you’re not familiar with Raine’s writing, now’s the time. And if you’re out for a pint anytime soon, keep an eye on your beer mat… yes, really! One of Raine’s poems is doing the rounds as part of the North Shields 800 celebrations. That’s poetry in the pub — and we’re here for it. 🍺📝
There’s so much talent in North Shields, and we’re proud to give it a platform! Keep sharing your work with us!
