Beatrice Hann

Brighton, East Sussex

Born 19/11/10 in London. My parents are now deceased. My pen name is Janet. I have a French and Greek pen friend. I am a retired personal secretary. I was educated at Brighton and Hove High School and Brighton Technical College. Member, Civil Service Retirement Fellowship. Awards: London University Matriculation Certificate with Honours in French, RSA Certificates in Advanced French, Advanced Typewriting with Society's Silver Medal, Intermediate German 1st class. I have received prizes for general knowledge crosswords. I enjoy foreign travel, painting, poetry and photography.

The Taj Mahal

I've seen the sunrise on the Ganges and on the peaks of Everest
But the Taj Mahal in Agra is the place I love best.
The beauty of the mausoleum in marble of pearly white
Is reflected in the water by day and by moonlight.
The paths leading to it are flanked by cypress trees
Whose dark green foliage sways gently in the breeze.

The Taj, built for Shah Jahan in memory of his wife,
Brought him much comfort in the last days of his life.
He could see the reflection of Mumtaz Mahal's tomb
In a little mirror on the wall of his room
Where he was imprisoned in the Agra Fort
By his ambitious son whose place as Emperor sought.

Now people come throughout the year from countries far and wide
To gaze upon the Taj Mahal - once Shah Jahan's pride.

The Call of the East

The magic and mystery of the East have always beckoned me
To visit those exotic lands so far across the sea.
One year I flew to Bangkok - city of many charms -
And sailed in a speed boat down a river fringed with palms.
The beauty of the Temples in shimmering blue and gold
With their encrusted jewellery is wondrous to behold.
In the crowded city I used to pause awhile
To speak to the friendly people with their ready smile.
The traffic in the evening is not so much fun
One felt one just wanted to alight and run!
But the traditional dancing in the concert hall
With its grace and beauty has not changed at all.
So Thailand with her traditions embedded in the past
Has forged in my mind fond memories that will last.