This Land of Dill in Under the Radar

‘This Land of Dill’ is in the latest issue of Under the Radar Issue 21 published by Nine Arches Press. Many thanks to Jane Commane. It is very exciting to be included in such a great literary magazine. What’s more, I am accompanied by friends Raine Geoghegan and Sue Spiers, which is a pleasure and an honour.

‘This Land of Dill’ is my surreal take on the ridiculous pointlessness of Brexit, and the harm and chaos that it will undoubtedly cause to very many of us. Dill is a powerful but flimsy herb. Its leaves are dangling fronds, but their aroma and taste are strong and distinctive, a bit like aniseed, more bitter than tarragon. Personally, I prefer tarragon. Actually, I adore tarragon but grow both in my garden. Dill grows to about five feet high and frequently droops if I don’t stake it or if it needs water. Particularly tasty with salmon, and the little green strands look good on top of a piece of smoked salmon. Add a little cream cheese and some pepper. Tasty.

All this has very little to do with the poem. I think I chose dill because of the sound and shape and absurdity of the word and the fact that it is not a store cupboard essential. Unlike thyme or basil. ‘This Land of Thyme’? ‘This Land of Basil’? Nah. It’s got to be Diill.