Bridget Hart

Home is a Bus Ride is a poem inspired by the number 3 bus route from my mum’s house in Lordswood, Southampton to the central station. This is also the route I would use when I lived in the city to get around. Getting on the bus after two or three years away, it was striking to note all the differences and things that have remained the same.

Going home is weird for lots of us who have moved away. For me, Southampton is a city of memories, of people that I have lost, and for a long time it was somewhere that didn’t bring me joy. I felt that every time I went home, my identity shifted uncomfortably, trying to grapple with the changes. It was like my mind didn’t know how to exist without Stacey, without Ivo. I just didn’t want to go through that every time.

It is easier now – I have reconciled a lot and this bus journey is now something to write about, to try and capture the community on the long Shirley Rd where I spent most of my life. Layering years upon years until now. I am almost an outsider (never fully) so the distance has given me some tools to take notes. I miss my Grandad’s favourite curry house, and I miss being completely dazzled by musicals at the Mayflower Theatre with my mum. Relationships with a place can be complex, and I might spent my whole life trying to put that into words.

Thanks to Poetry on the Picketline for selecting my work!

Home is a Bus Ride – The Morning Star 03/04/2019

(Pic: Osmond Brooks – Crusty Cottage had brilliant iced buns!)