Book review: The Heather and the Rose Gardens by Raymond Wills
A new collection of poetry by Raymond Wills reviewed by Dee Cooper
There are some books that arrive simply as books, and then there are books that carry years of memories, observations and stories between their covers.
The Heather and the Rose Gardens, the latest collection by Dorset poet, author and historian Raymond Wills, is one of those books. It brings together poetry gathered across many years, reflecting Ray’s long-standing connection with Dorset, its people, its landscapes and its history.
Ray’s writing has taken him from poetry and storytelling into historical research, and over the years his work has been shared in museums, libraries, community halls and local history events. His poetry has also been commissioned for the Dorset Festival in Bere Regis.
This latest collection brings together different sides of his writing. Alongside contemporary poetry are folk poems and poems concerning Gypsy life and culture, giving the reader a glimpse into some of the themes and traditions that have continued to influence his work.
There is also a strong literary thread running through the collection. The influence of poets such as Thomas Hardy, William Barnes, Tennyson, Keats, Walt Whitman and Dylan Thomas can be felt in the background, while Ray brings his own voice to subjects ranging from history and romance to humour and everyday life.
Beneath the pretty cover of roses and heather is an ode to Gypsy poets, stories of Romany life, towns and villages, alongside contemporary journeys, love and romance. This delightful book has something to offer readers of all tastes.
With titles such as Freedom Calls and Jumping the Broomstick, alongside local poetry such as Wimborne Days, and Part Five, Fairground Days and Nights, the collection takes us through different places, memories and moments. There is a wonderful sense of whimsical nostalgia running through the pages.
Previously to this latest book, Ray invited other Romany writers to contribute to his anthology Gypsy Tales Around the Yog, with poetry from the lovely Chris Penfold-Brown, a Romany poet herself, and words from Betty Smith Billington, as well as other contributors. I was also invited to contribute, as Dee Cooper, Romany writer and poet.
It is collaborations such as this that make books authentic and celebrate works of language and culture. They allow different voices to sit alongside one another, sharing stories, experiences and perspectives, while helping to keep our words and traditions alive.
Both these books are generous in size, with a great amount of depth and information. They offer readers the opportunity to spend time with stories, poetry, history and memories, rather than simply passing through the pages.
Ray Wills is a much-loved poet, storyteller and historian whose work celebrates people, places, history and the stories that connect us to them. Through his poetry and writing, he has created a wonderful collection of memories and voices that deserve to be read, remembered and passed on.
So, if you are looking for a good read as autumn approaches, it would be fair to say that cosying up with either book would whisk you off to beautiful destinations and the familiar feeling of days gone by.
By Dee Cooper for Travellers Times
Where to find the books
To purchase these and other titles by Ray Wills, visit: