Children of the Hedgerow

Sun paints orchard gold,
small hands reach for ruddy fruit—
apples, pears abound.
Pockets heavy with sweet spoils,
laughter drifting down the lane.

Down the dusty lane
sun-drenched meadow calls them on,
blackberries hiding.
Eager fingers search the thorns,
purple sweetness stains their lips.

Purple smiles remain,
along the winding hedgerow
brown husks split open.
Glossy conkers fill small palms,
dreams of glory soon to swing.

Swinging dreams at dusk,
children gather near the trees,
whispers in green shade.
Truth or dare and blushing cheeks,
secrets rustling in the leaves.

Rustling summer leaves
softly hush the evening air,
daylight fading slow.
Laughter drifts through memory—
a season held like treasure.

by Paul Baldry (LongJohn)

A walk through the hedgerows of childhood, where orchards glow, blackberries stain eager fingers, and glossy conkers promise playground glory.

As the day drifts toward dusk, laughter, whispers, and small secrets gather beneath the trees.

This tanka sequence follows children through a golden summer day—simple treasures discovered, shared, and quietly carried into memory. Can you spot the hidden word links in each verse.

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