Sea

I grew up with the sea in the background, taking for granted the views of it in between houses and out of windows. It was a constant edge and horizon, giving me a direction, a coastline to follow. Sea to the left or sea to right. Cornwall or Devon depending on which way you are facing.

When I moved away from this coast, I missed it. The channel and harbour of Bristol’s landscape never has had quite the same energy or placement in my life. I’m not sure what exactly I missed but people would ask, do you miss the sea? I would reply, yes. It was an obvious feeling of longing which is wrapped up in identity of place. When you dwell next to a big landscape like the sea or perhaps a mountain, the energy from it is a dominant echo. I’s vastness is a relentless presence and backdrop to everyday life. The weather rolls off of the sea and sets the mood of the town. There is a feeling of power and danger too, living next to sea, you have to get along with it. People come to it, to its edge and the waves move in and out. High tide and low tide, bringing in and taking out. Daily washing of the land, taking little bits as it goes. Of course this pendulum rhythm s set by our moon. It’s strange to think that this beautiful thing so far away has such power to change the shape of things. But it is certain, the tide will change.

I had always thought I would return to the seaside, that I would need those big open skies. Life as it does, moves on at a pace and the need for a coastal life changed. The memory is still there and a want to trace the coastline. To go to the edge of the island. Although I don’t live in sight of it anymore the south coast of Devon and Cornwall will always be my threshold onto my horizon. I look forward to the times when I return,