PERFECT PAIR

Beneath the perfect warm sunshine,
Beneath the perfect sky...
The lion and his Valentine
Both shared the perfect sigh...
Love is both precious and perfect,
The maximum, the best...
The strongest love that could be checked
Could pass each trial and test...

The perfect breeze had calmed the air...
They rested, so serene...
And everyone was quite aware
The king had found his queen.
There was no doubt their love would last
The years until life's end...
For each had found how quick time passed
When with the perfect friend.

They gazed into each other's smile...
Like perfect lovers do...
The perfect pair stayed there a while...
Content, for love was new...
I envy them with all my heart,
For all the joy they've known...
You see, I live my life apart...
Unloved and all alone...

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Perfect Pair'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/perfect-pair/

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

MEAN AND MOODY

As leopards go, he's looking good,
But smiling's not his scene...
He thinks he owns the neighbourhood.
We mustn't intervene...
Mean and moody! Quite unfriendly!
In fact, he looks aloof...
He's staring quite intently,
As if with some reproof...
Well, good job, then, he's on his own,
Or he'd put up a fight!
I think we'll leave this guy alone!
Good afternoon! Goodnight!
Yes, goodbye, then, you sour puss,
So glad to see us go...
We weren't a threat so serious
As you would have us know!
We would have shared our sausage rolls,
Our bacon and our ham...
Instead, we'll leave you to your strolls...
And take the hint... and scram...

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Mean And Moody'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/mean-and-moody/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/meanandmoody

The Stephen Gayford Gallery website is here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com
Update: My poem, 'An Ode To Stephen Gayford' is featured in
the website's News Section!
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/news.htm

There's also a Guest Book!
http://users2.smartgb.com/g/g.php?a=s&i=g25-52612-21

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

KING CHEETAH

Untamed, he roams the world he owns,
This land of hopes and dreams...
Where every hunting skill he hones
With perfect-timing schemes...
Intelligence beyond the norm,
Instincts that serve as guide...
There's beauty in his face and form
That cannot be denied...
This cheetah's fast as lightning, too.
In seconds, flying fur...
A rocket barely still in view,
From head-to-tail, a blur...
Perhaps that's why I call him king
At everything he does...
He flies like birds upon the wing,
No hassle and no fuss!
To me, he's got an athlete's style,
Trimmed-back, machine-like grace...
He's fit to run that extra mile
For every single chase!
Such speed, of course, is rarely found,
That's why I'm so impressed...
Of all the big cats still around,
This king's one of the best!

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'King Cheetah'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/king-cheetah/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/kingcheetah

The Stephen Gayford Gallery website is here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com
Update: My poem, 'An Ode To Stephen Gayford' is featured in
the website's News Section!
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/news.htm

There's also a Guest Book!
http://users2.smartgb.com/g/g.php?a=s&i=g25-52612-21

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

CHERISHED INFANT

Hello, white tiger infant cub!
So cherished by the rest!
As if part of a private club
That thinks that it's the best!
Today, you're quite their golden boy,
Their firstborn, full of fun!
I guess you're now their pride and joy,
Their precious number one!
I bet they've got great plans for you!
They're grooming for success...
For now, you haven't got a clue...
Life's full of happiness!
But down the road, you'll earn your keep,
With teeth and claws to match!
Then your weak legs must learn to leap,
To chase... and track... and catch!
Today, you look so cool, so cute!
So sweet and debonair...
One day, you'll turn into a brute
Who simply doesn't care!
A cherished infant here and now,
An innocent today...
No furrowed lines upon your brow,
Just stripes that look OK...
So swish your tail and pause your paws...
Be thankful while you can...
One day, you'll be a tour de force,
A tiger feared by Man!

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Cherished Infant'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/cherished-infant/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/cherishedinfant

The Stephen Gayford Gallery website is here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com
Update: My poem, 'An Ode To Stephen Gayford' is featured in
the website's News Section!
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/news.htm

There's also a Guest Book!
http://users2.smartgb.com/g/g.php?a=s&i=g25-52612-21

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

INDIAN GOLD

This tiger's stripes resemble gold,
In all its finery,
They're truly wondrous to behold...
What awesome majesty!
He strides across the land that's his,
With swaggers, to and fro...
At ease, exuding perfect bliss,
He puts on quite a show!
Let others cower from his stare
That twinkles golden bright...
He's not like those caught unaware
Before their final fight!
No quiet, humdrum life for him!
He's earnt his stripes, indeed!
His life is filled up to the brim
With wisdom to succeed...
As long as he stays number one
And he's the alpha male,
Then you can bet, he's having fun
With stories to regale...
In time, he'll father many more,
With gold stripes of their own...
Perhaps that's what God made him for
And why he's so well-known...

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Indian Gold'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/indian-gold/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/indiangold

The Stephen Gayford Gallery website is here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com
Update: My poem, 'An Ode To Stephen Gayford' is featured in
the website's News Section!
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/news.htm

There's also a Guest Book!
http://users2.smartgb.com/g/g.php?a=s&i=g25-52612-21

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

SUN KISSED

The chilled dark night had passed away
And daylight came with dawn,
Fresh warmth was born and chose to stay
And blessed a brand new morn...
Upon the craggy rock he climbed,
One white wolf, all alone...
And there he stayed, as if he timed
The hours on his own...
No clouds were sailing by above,
No birds that swirled and swirled...
With just the sun to show him love
Within his lonesome world...
That sun had been a faithful friend,
Warmhearted through and through...
For all the hours God could send,
Yes, credit where it's due...
It led him to his hunting grounds
To feed and thus stay strong...
And showed him places he could pounce
Before game strolled along...
It didn't judge, like men have done,
For centuries and more...
He hunted game, but not for fun
And didn't go to war...
The day went on and evening neared...
The cold began to bite...
And when the silver moon appeared,
He kissed the sun goodnight....

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Sun Kissed'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/sun-kissed-3/

The Stephen Gayford Gallery website is here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com

Update: My poem, 'An Ode To Stephen Gayford' is featured in
the website's News Section!
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/news.htm

There's also a Guest Book!
http://users2.smartgb.com/g/g.php?a=s&i=g25-52612-21

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

CATNAP

The tiger looked with expert eyes,
Content to see for miles...
And in his own eyes he was wise,
His black heart full of wiles...
There was no doubt within his mind,
This was the time to choose...
A better time he wouldn't find
For him to have a snooze...
He stretched his awesome long legs out,
Then curled up in a ball...
Quite sure there was no-one about,
His catnap came to call...
His eyelids drooped, like weary tails,
Their blackness dead ahead...
And nothing short of fearsome gales
Could open them instead...
Deep breaths and he was on his way,
To where all tigers go,
When big cats' dreams they must obey
And this each one must know...
His whiskers flopped like withered strings,
No longer tight and taut...
So much for tigers thought as kings,
If by his dreams, he's caught...

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Catnap'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/catnap/

The Stephen Gayford Gallery website is here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com

Update: My poem, 'An Ode To Stephen Gayford' is featured in
the website's News Section!
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/news.htm

There's also a Guest Book!
http://users2.smartgb.com/g/g.php?a=s&i=g25-52612-21

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

SUDDEN MOVEMENT

The tiger's eye was on it fast!
A sudden movement seen!
Now on his feet, he stood at last,
His mind alert and keen...
His body leapt ten feet ahead
And landed with a crunch!
Of course, the reason that he sped
Was what he hoped was lunch!

The creature that he tracked was close,
Somewhere within the snow...
That's why he sniffed with downward nose
As low as he could go...
The creature stopped, no sound was heard...
A silence met his ears.
Then all at once, the creature stirred
And dashed to join his peers...

The tiger's eye was left and right
And saw the creature run
And all at once, the bird took flight...
And nothing could be done!
The tiger's sigh was long and drawn...
No lunch for him today!
When he laid down, he paused to yawn...
And there he chose to stay...

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Sudden Movement'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/sudden-movement/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/suddenmovement

The Stephen Gayford Gallery website is here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com

Update: My poem, 'An Ode To Stephen Gayford' is featured in
the website's News Section!
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/news.htm

There's also a Guest Book!
http://users2.smartgb.com/g/g.php?a=s&i=g25-52612-21

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

ARCTIC SUN

Wrapped up within his blanket fur,
The white wolf looks serene,
The arctic sun makes him a blur,
Pristene and oh so clean...
And while he's there, not here with you,
You're safe as safe can be,
To zoom in through your camera's view,
To see what you can see...
He looks like Lassie painted white,
Quite harmless, don't you think?
He looks refined and most polite,
But wait until you blink...
For in a moment, he can stand
And run from there to here...
And suddenly, he'll shake your hand
And shake your heart with fear....
Appearances deceive us all,
Sometimes you just can't tell...
It's only when you hear wolves call,
That beauty casts no spell...
It's then that Nature's rules enforce
Her laws by night and day...
To tell us, who has teeth and claws,
The hunter or the prey?

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Arctic Sun'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/arctic-sun/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/arcticsun

The Stephen Gayford Gallery website is here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com

Update: My poem, 'An Ode To Stephen Gayford' is featured in
the website's News Section!
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/news.htm

There's also a Guest Book!
http://users2.smartgb.com/g/g.php?a=s&i=g25-52612-21

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

INDIAN SENTINEL

The tiger stared as tigers do
Across his own domain,
A remnant of the chosen few
On Earth who still remain...
When Winter comes and times are hard,
As hard as frozen snow,
The tiger's always on his guard,
No matter, high or low...
The seasons pass and daylight's short
And eyes must stay alert,
For any creature to be caught
And dangers that may hurt...
The tiger's seen these days before
And yearns for Spring's return,
Then Summer to appear once more
And sunshine's heat to burn...
For now, survival's game is played
And hunger takes its toll...
And though at times he looks dismayed,
He's brave within his soul...
Endurance and tenacity,
These strengths have served him well...
He hopes another year to see...
Yet of this, who can tell?

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Indian Sentinel'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/indian-sentinel/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/indiansentinel

The Stephen Gayford Gallery website is here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com

Update: My poem, 'An Ode To Stephen Gayford' is featured in
the website's News Section!
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/news.htm

There's also a Guest Book!
http://users2.smartgb.com/g/g.php?a=s&i=g25-52612-21

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

INDIAN JEWEL

Up close, the tiger looks quite fierce,
He's in your face, just so...
He'll stare at you with eyes that pierce,
That's just to let you know...
He's no pushover, get that straight!
Don't twiddle with his tail!
Don't climb aboard or aggravate
Or he'll make you go pale...
Your blood will fall from brawn and brain,
You'll gulp to clear your throat,
You'll never be the same again...
Be warned and please take note...
A tiger's not a friendly pet
That you pat on the head!
In fact, on this, I'd take a bet,
You'd run away instead...
This Indian jewel like amber shines,
Black diamonds set the tone...
White pearls for teeth and whiskered lines
Tell us, leave him alone...
Majestic though he seems to be,
The tiger's rough and tough!
So right here's where I'll look and see...
My camera zoom's enough...

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Indian Jewel'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/indian-jewel/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/indianjewel

The Stephen Gayford Gallery website is here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com

Update: My poem, 'An Ode To Stephen Gayford' is featured in
the website's News Section!
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/news.htm

There's also a Guest Book!
http://users2.smartgb.com/g/g.php?a=s&i=g25-52612-21

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

OLD FRIENDS

So comfortable together,
They now marched side-by-side,
Though their hides were tough as leather,
They strode along with pride...
Their fiercesome tusks like scimitars,
Their eyes as dark as night,
With tiny twinkling nestled stars
Inside them, shining bright...
Their feet as tough as army boots
Sent trembling through the ground...
Like old friends, as if in cahoots,
Just swaggering around...
Defiant against any foe!
Just bring it! If you dare!
They'd fight them all, give blow for blow,
As if they didn't care...
The other creatures gave them space...
Why make the giants mad?
Why anger them, so they give chase...
And lose the life you had?
And so, the old friends swaggered by,
Like playground bullies do...
Bull elephants! Don't ask them why,
If you know what's good for you...

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Old Friends'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/old-friends-16/

The Stephen Gayford Gallery website is here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com

Update: My poem, 'An Ode To Stephen Gayford' is featured in
the website's News Section!
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/news.htm

There's also a Guest Book!
http://users2.smartgb.com/g/g.php?a=s&i=g25-52612-21

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

SISTERS

The lionesses rested there,
Two sisters side-by-side...
Both breathing gently, without care,
Yet their eyes open wide...
The day was long, the air was still,
The sun was warm not hot
And clouds sailed by the distant hill,
While they stayed in their spot...
To some, these were of royal birth,
Princesses and revered.
To others, they possessed no worth
And nothing to be cheered...
Yet for each other, there was love,
Affection day-by-day...
A tenderness that proved enough,
No matter, come what may...
As tiny cubs, they'd fooled around,
Rejoicing playfully...
Receiving every sight and sound,
With thanks they'd been born free...
For them, the training ground must wait
Until another time...
The time was now, their adult state,
When they were in their prime...
Each day, their hunting skills combined
To grant them new success
And having dined, they now reclined,
Both comfy, more or less...
They lived their lives, as lions must,
In order to survive...
Ashes to ashes, dust to dust...
Or hunt to stay alive...

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Sisters'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/sisters-43/

The Stephen Gayford Gallery website is here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com

Update: My poem, 'An Ode To Stephen Gayford' is featured in
the website's News Section!
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/news.htm

There's also a Guest Book!
http://users2.smartgb.com/g/g.php?a=s&i=g25-52612-21

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

WINTER PERFECTION

They say the dog is Man's best friend,
His buddy, through and through...
You can depend he will defend,
So credit where it's due...
Yet from the wild wolf he was tamed
And brought into the home,
Where he plays free and unashamed,
Wherever he may roam...
To think, the wolf once crossed the globe,
The forests, plains and hills...
And every valley Man could probe,
The wild wolf hunts and kills.
Beyond the cities, Nature rules
The hunter and the prey...
When Summer dies, the Autumn cools,
Then Winter haunts each day.
The blinding snow falls to the ground
And freezes far and wide...
It's then the white wolf roams around
And has no need to hide.
His camouflage is perfect now,
Successful hunts ensue...
The truth is harsh, yet fates allow
The things the wolf must do...

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Winter Perfection'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/winter-perfection-2/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/winterperfection

The Stephen Gayford Gallery website is here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com

Update: My poem, 'An Ode To Stephen Gayford' is featured in
the website's News Section!
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/news.htm

There's also a Guest Book!
http://users2.smartgb.com/g/g.php?a=s&i=g25-52612-21

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

ON THE EDGE

The polar bear has lasted well,
Outliving those we've lost...
Some species merely stay a spell
And then they pay the cost...
Extinction takes its toll each year
And sometimes Man's to blame
And there's no doubt, it's crystal clear...
Let's bow our heads in shame...
Adopt a polar bear, some say...
Conserve what still remains...
We can postpone that final day,
If we just use our brains!
Resources come, resources go...
That's just the way it is.
We need to make their numbers grow...
Before things go amiss...
Their future's truly in our hands
And in our wallets, too.
How wise is he who understands
And does what he must do.
How blessed are those that say their prayers
For healing on this Earth.
God hears our thoughts for polar bears
Because they, too, have worth.
Yes, it's great, we've got the knowledge,
So we can change their fate!
If not, they'll die! They're on the edge!
Extinction! Gone! Too late!

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'On The Edge'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/on-the-edge-17/

It's sad to read about the world today and the way
Man could be destroying the world a little at a time.
That's why the polar bears are on the edge of extinction.
This new poem asks us to respond while there's still time.

The Stephen Gayford Gallery website is here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com

Update: My poem, 'An Ode To Stephen Gayford' is featured in
the website's News Section!
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/news.htm

There's also a Guest Book!
http://users2.smartgb.com/g/g.php?a=s&i=g25-52612-21

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

SNOW LEOPARD

The snow leopard stared intently,
At all things near and far...
While at times, he looked quite friendly,
You know how wild cats are.
A tiny cat can mew meow
And people say, how cute!
Yet time goes on, then fates allow
That cat to be a brute!

The snow leopard stood serenely,
His paws poised on the pulse...
With his eyes surveying keenly,
As in all leopards' skulls...
While his heart was beating slowly...
His mind was thinking fast.
Though his hunting skills weren't holy,
He didn't look downcast.

Survival favours those that eat
A hearty meal each day,
Enduring both the cold and heat,
Outwitting all their prey.
That's why the leopard had to learn
That patience is the key...
And why, he, too, must wait his turn,
For breakfast, lunch and tea...

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Snow Leopard'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/snow-leopard/

The Stephen Gayford Gallery website is here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com
Update: My poem, 'An Ode To Stephen Gayford' is featured in
the website's News Section!
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/news.htm
There's also a Guest Book!
http://users2.smartgb.com/g/g.php?a=s&i=g25-52612-21

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

EVER WATCHFUL

As the ever watchful cheetah
Was resting on the ground,
She believed no-one could beat her
While listening for each sound,
Yet her eyes could see much further
Than pricked ears could relay
And so her eyes would serve her,
Protecting her each day.
A mother's love is diligent
And seeks the common good...
Her eyes are always vigilant
To scan her neighbourhood...
So watch out, fellow predator,
This cheetah's wide awake...
And be wise, don't seek to hurt her...
Your life could be at stake...
If left alone, her family
Will last for many years,
Yet ever watchful she must be,
Diminishing their fears...
It may be sunny overhead,
With gentle breezes, too...
Yet all God's creatures must be fed
And don't care what or who.
Compassion's limits she knows well,
Yet love still has its place...
If you look hard, then you can tell...
Her love shows on her face...

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Ever Watchful'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/ever-watchful/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/everwatchful

The Stephen Gayford Gallery website is here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com

In November 2009, it featured a competition for this picture print.
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/competition_01.htm
See the Mother Cheetah picture there... and in detail here:
http://www.gayfordgallery.com/index_htm_files/44.jpg

Update: My poem, 'An Ode To Stephen Gayford' is featured in
the website's News Section!

http://www.gayfordgallery.com/news.htm

There's also a Guest Book!
http://users2.smartgb.com/g/g.php?a=s&i=g25-52612-21

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

HIDDEN OBSERVER

The lone gray wolf sat still once more,
Next to another tree...
As if to tap his frozen paw,
In time, impatiently...
The snow had stopped, the breeze was cool,
He sighed another sigh...
And there he sat, as if a fool,
For something to pass by...
An hour vanished like the sun
That clouds had blocked from sight.
Yet there was nothing to be done,
Waiting in that twilight...
Starvation haunts the carnivores
When snow sets on the ground.
The lone gray wolf can't rest indoors
When there's no food around...
Then drooping ears pricked up at last!
A rustling sound was heard...
The lone gray wolf then ran so fast
To catch the helpless bird!
The ancient battle then ensued,
The hunter and the prey...
This time, the wolf had won the feud
And food was on its way...
The ancient rules must still apply...
For Nature's Laws must serve her...
That's why, beneath the twilight sky,
He's the hidden observer...

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Hidden Observer'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/hidden-observer/
Shortcut: tinyurl.com/hiddenobserver

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

HUNTER'S MOON

Beneath the silver-speckled moon,
That floated like the clouds,
The wild wolf smiled for he would soon
Dispel all nearby crowds.
For he could howl, upon his hill,
Enough to chill your bones,
Enough to make a brave man ill
And fill his throat with groans...

This wily wolf could howl all night!
He sat still unafraid...
He grinned from ear-to-ear all right,
Then what a noise he made!
All ears for miles were tuned in now!
He sniggered, then he paused...
With one huge breath, he howled and how!
And, oh, what fear that caused!

Then three quick howls to pile it on!
Then silence, just for fun...
And just when folks had thought he'd gone,
He proved he wasn't done!
Beneath the hunter's moon above,
His body shook with glee...
He howled as they screamed, 'Lay it off!'
'You can't get rid of me!'

Denis Martindale, copyright, November 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Hunter's Moon'.

Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/hunter-s-moon/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/huntersmoon

The Stephen Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

VANTAGE POINT

This tree was his, he'd staked his claim,
Yes, every leaf and twig...
The leopard watched approaching game,
No matter, small or big...
He circled round to catch the sights,
To memorise them all...
And while he savoured these delights,
Made sure he didn't fall.
His old tree wasn't quite as good,
This served his purpose well...
As he surveyed his neighbourhood,
Its magic weaved its spell...
This was a land he'd learnt to love,
The best that he could roam,
A palace where he'd rule above,
A kingdom near his home...
Yes, life was good, for him at least,
Yet not for those below...
For they'd learnt fast to fear the beast,
To count him as their foe...
The predator looked sleek, sublime,
Alert both night and day...
Yet from his vantage point, in time,
He'd take your breath away...

Denis Martindale, copyright, October 2009.

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Vantage Point'.
Shared on http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/vantage-point-3/

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

BLACK BEAUTY

Behold the black panther's beauty!
That striking set of eyes!
Yet survival sets its duty -
To hunt until he dies...
So each night, he's slowly bidden
To stalk his prey once more...
Within that darkness he's hidden,
In silence, to be sure...
He treads the ground with gentle paws,
He sniffs the breeze for clues,
He hides his teeth, he hides his claws,
This untamed wild recluse...
The night is young, his turn will come...
His blood runs cold each time...
His heart is beating like a drum...
Yet onward he must climb.
The hours pass, yet he must wait...
The vigil must be kept.
No rest, he mustn't hesitate...
He mustn't be inept!
Was that a rustling dead ahead?
Was that his answered prayer?
Was that a creature that just fled?
All he could do was stare!
Here was the beauty and the beast...
The devil in disguise...
With hunger raging, unappeased...
Till something near him dies...
I pity him, his victims, too...
Is there no other way?
Each night they do what they must do,
The hunter and the prey...

Denis Martindale, copyright, October 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Black Beauty'.

Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/black-beauty-6/

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

HOPE FOR THE FUTURE

The polar bear looked at her child,
The one she must defend,
The son who soon would face the wild,
The one who was her friend...
The tiny cub looked up above,
To see his mother there,
The one who filled his heart with love
And melted every care.
Their togetherness and gentleness
Remain a sight to see.
To those who share their happiness,
There's no great mystery...
For each shares hope, as days go by,
With bonds they share for life,
That help them bear and thus defy
The troubles and the strife.
If Nature didn't cultivate
The love that these two own,
Then each of them would face their fate
Unaided, all alone...
Through families, life perseveres,
For we know we belong...
Surviving through the passing years,
Resilient, ever strong.
Persistence and tenacity,
These strengths have proved enough...
Formed now in every family
With tenderness and love...

Denis Martindale, copyright, October 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Hope For The Future'.
Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/hope-for-the-future-2/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/hopeforthefuture

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

DEEP FREEZE

As the snow was going nowhere,
The tiger settled still...
Content that he saw nothing there,
He rested on the hill.
He looked to both the left and right,
From his high point of view
And all he saw was white, white, white!
And so, what could he do?

He yawned at so much tedium...
With nothing there to eat...
And coldness filled him to the brim
And gone all trace of heat!
Somehow, he felt he couldn't win!
"Why can't I fly like birds?"
"Why me?" he asked, with such chagrin!
In short-clipped angry words...

Of course, we know, life isn't fair!
For some, it's way too cold.
Yet starving was so hard to bear...
And he was getting old!
He wasn't like he used to be,
So fast upon his feet.
"I'm getting on, that's plain to see...
Now things are not so sweet!"

And so he moaned, like old folks do,
About his aches and pains...
Stuck to that hill as if with glue...
Then suddenly, it rains...
"For pity sake!" he groaned again...
"This really's not my day!"
And so he stood, right there and then...
And sighed... and walked away...

Denis Martindale, copyright, October 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Deep Freeze'.
Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/deep-freeze-2/

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

KEEPING WATCH

The zebras stood there in a line
And almost side-by-side.
Their eyes were staring for a sign
That could serve as a guide.
If dangers lurked, then eyes and ears
Would warn them when to run...
Their instincts helped them through the years,
Yet they must fight the sun...
For up above, it blasted down
With heat beyond belief...
To melt the blue, the green and brown
And linger like a thief...
Just one mistake and some would die
And so they stood and chewed...
And watched each hour pass them by,
In their long solemn mood...
No false alarms had happened yet
And so they stood their ground...
United in each other's debt
For anything they found...
A sudden stirring chilled their blood!
In seconds, they had gone!
Like cavalry, their hooves would thud,
As lions stood alone...
This battle won, the zebras lived
To see another day...
With vigilence their greatest gift,
They chewed and chewed away...

Denis Martindale, copyright, October 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Keeping Watch'.
Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/keeping-watch/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/keepingwatch

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

READY TO POUNCE

When every single second counts,
The cougar bides his time...
Above the rock, ready to pounce,
His skills are quite sublime...
He has no choice, it's Nature's way...
He starves or eats again...
This solemn truth he must obey
And has since God knows when...
His father did as he does now,
His son will do the same...
The hunt goes on and must, somehow,
In search of life to claim...
He can't escape what must be done,
For him, there's no way out...
The hunter waits, hid by the sun,
With hungry eyes that scout.
Is that his next meal over there?
Or must he starve some more?
The pain inside is hard to bear,
Yet soon he'll know the score...
Above the rock, ready to pounce,
His skills are quite sublime...
When every single second counts,
The cougar bides his time...

Denis Martindale, copyright, October 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Ready To Pounce'.

Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/ready-to-pounce/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/readytopounce

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

INDIAN NOBILITY

The tiger treads the trails once more -
They're all he's ever known...
Nobility he has galore,
Such dignity to own.
He strides across the ancient earth
As Nature's masterpiece...
With every step, he proves his worth,
As everyone agrees.
The tiger's trained himself to fight,
So he can stand his ground...
Not like a coward that takes flight
And then is seldom found...
He bears the scars upon his back,
His glories from his wins -
They're almost hidden in the black
And orange on this prince.
He stood the victor at the end,
The champion of each one...
The conqueror and not the friend,
When all's been said and done...
Who likes to lose, who likes to fail,
Who likes to quit in shame?
Behold him now, this alpha male,
His majesty, his fame...
He needs no crown, no royal ring,
No sceptre shining out...
You look at him and know one thing,
He's regal without doubt.
Who knows how long he can survive
This modern world he shares?
Yet every day he stays alive
Depends upon our prayers...

Denis Martindale, copyright, October 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Indian Nobility'.

Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/indian-nobility/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/indiannobility

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

KING OF KINGS

Behold the son of royal birth,
Aligned by blood, no less,
To ancient kings who proved their worth
And ones God chose to bless.
Consider all that history
Has taught us through the years,
Each miracle, each mystery,
The laughter and the tears...
Consider how each king is raised
From birth to adulthood...
As if like diamonds, well appraised,
Superior not just good...
Reflect on posture that's portrayed
To signify his throne...
That tells you he must be obeyed,
For he is king alone...
Remember all his mighty power,
His strength and bravery.
For he is king and you should cower
At all there is to see.
That majesty, that dignity,
That stare that meets your eyes...
Should grant your soul some clarity
And help you realise...
That here he is, the king of kings...
Perhaps your friend or foe...
In either case, his underlings...
What more is there to know?

Denis Martindale, copyright, October 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'King Of Kings'.
Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/king-of-kings-12/

While this poem is about the lion painting,
the poem is written without any reference
to the lion at all. That's because of the
Christian symbolism of Jesus, the Son of God,
whose royal ancestors meant that He was
called the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.
The poem ends with the realisation for each soul.
Are you a friend or a foe to the King of Kings?

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

ELEGANCE

The cheetah checked the path ahead
For prey and foe alike...
Yet all was calm, no need to dread,
No need to flee or strike...
No conflicts loomed, no burdens sensed,
No sudden terrors here...
At last his soul felt recompensed
For times he shook with fear.
On making sure that all took place
Without the need for fights,
He simply walked, with gentle grace,
Just taking in the sights.
This therefore meant the time was his,
To do with as he pleased.
Serenity transformed to bliss...
His muscle tension eased.

In moments, he was confident...
As if his heart felt blessed.
As if this day would be well spent...
Because it felt his best.
Taking in the sweet air's fragrance,
Its innocence felt good...
And he exuded elegance,
As if he'd understood...
That life is precious, so sublime...
Enjoy it when you can.
One third asleep, the rest gives time
To think ahead and plan...
And so he walked, to think of schemes,
To make his life worthwhile.
There's nothing wrong with dreaming dreams...
Of elegance and style...

Denis Martindale, copyright, October 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Elegance'.
Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/elegance-6/

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

EXHAUSTED

To say the sun was way too hot
Was simply not enough.
To think, that tiny golden dot
Was burning bright above.
The lion cub had spent his strength,
Just playing with his friends
And now, he laid down, stretched full length,
Exhausted as day ends...
The adult lions stared amused,
Yet knew one day he'd learn.
To pace himself, for there's no boost
And there's no second turn...
The slightly older cubs still played,
While he laid motionless...
They'd learnt some wisdom and obeyed,
Without the need to guess.
The lion cub could hear them still
And gazed through weary eyes,
For he'd lost both the strength and will...
To join the other guys...
Plum tuckered out! All on his todd!
He couldn't pounce or creep...
And since no-one gave him a prod,
He gently went to sleep...
'Poor thing!' the adults all agreed,
Acknowledging their sorrow...
And promised they'd help him succeed,
'We'll feed him up... tomorrow...'

Denis Martindale, copyright, October 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Exhausted'.
Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/exhausted-6/

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

FATHER FIGURE

The lion cub thought life was good,
While at his father's side.
Protected in this neighbourhood,
A member of the pride.
A social group of relatives,
Where each one plays their part -
Each makes mistakes and each forgives,
While love lives in the heart...
The father figure led the way -
He set the mood for all.
It didn't matter, night or day -
They listened to his call.

His mighty roar was heard for miles,
On land and air above...
Yet silent were his lion smiles
That helped him show his love.
The cub tugged on his father's tail
Then jumped upon his back...
Without a thought that love would fail
Or that he'd ever lack...
This was their way, to take their ease,
To nestle in the sun...
Father and son, both blessed by peace,
As if this must be done...

When wisdom splits the lion's share,
Then others, too, can eat.
If not, then let the weak beware,
As others feast on meat.
Humanity learns lessons, too...
It turns away from war...
Then gentle folk, like me and you,
Can help to feed the poor...
When wisdom leads to clarity,
We open up our eyes
And then donate to charity,
So one more soul survives...

Denis Martindale, copyright, October 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Father Figure'.
Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/father-figure-6/

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

RAVENOUS

The Panda cub was ravenous!
His eyes looked everywhere!
The bamboo shoots caused quite a fuss!
He didn't stop to stare!
He pounced upon them one-by-one
And sometimes two-by-two!
His feeding frenzy had begun,
Like it was something new!
He chomped and chomped upon each shoot,
With relish and delight!
As if each was a tough old boot
Deserving every bite!
I pity fools who intervened,
When he was in his stride...
He'd fight them off as if a fiend!
He'd never run and hide!
He saw them first! He owned them all!
The feast was his alone...
So he sat down and had a ball...
That's why he looks full grown!

Denis Martindale, copyright, October 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Ravenous'.
Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/ravenous/

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

GOING IN

The tiger's tail was piping hot
All the live-long day...
And that one tail was all he'd got
To swipe the flies away!
Its twists and turns were quite enough
To signal it was time
To find that place when things got tough...
The stream was so sublime...
So off he went in search of peace,
His own sweet Shangri-La...
Where all his tensions found release
As if it were a spa...
When going in, the soft mud feels
So squelchy there below...
Yet somehow that sensation heals,
As mud slips to and fro...
Now halfway in, with all legs wet,
He stands still there and then...
He loses every frown and fret
And he's refreshed again.
The final part to be revived
Must be his twisting tail
And just as soon as it's arrived,
It quivers without fail...
He's well and truly in it now!
He's cooling down a treat...
Yes, Mother Nature, take a bow!
This river's hard to beat!

Denis Martindale, copyright, October 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Going In'.
Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/going-in/

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

GOOGLE IMAGES SEARCH

Google's website starts here: http://www.google.com/   Click the top images tab. Type in "Stephen Gayford"   Here is an example result as a cropped image:         The Osborne and Allen website is mentioned on the UK Freeview and Sky Digital TV Channels as a guide to start prices and framing prices before prices drop! These limited editions are sold with different frames, they are signed by Stephen Gayford and may have an extra small image of the animal's face as well.   Other websites feature Stephen Gayford's artwork. There may be the original paintings or the prints sold on Ebay auctions or as mini collections... Some of the Shopping TV customers have dozens! I particularly like the canvas frames which work out about £20 extra than the print prices that I've seen.   Google also offers a selection of image sizes eg extra large, large, medium and I've also seen a good face search option which is useful for celeb searches. Other search engines may help track down an image for you if you already know the title, otherwise try to identify which animal it is about to refine the searches... When you find good Gayford sites, save them as soon as you can eg as complete webpages or Favourites!     Denis Martindale, September 2009.

SUNSET

The cheetah rested, there to stay,
So statuesque and still...
Just gently taking in the day...
To mellow and to chill.
Life isn't always running round,
All frantic, to and fro...
Sometimes it's settling on the ground
Or simply walking slow.
Sunset would soon be here once more...
The daylight dimmed to black.
The moonlight shining to restore
The golden glow we lack...
The cheetah watched the changing pace
The cooling breeze must bring,
Before each midnight from deep space
God's stars start sparkle-ing...
Staring skyward, the cheetah knew
The future that must be...
It doesn't matter what we do,
Each sunset sets us free...
Yes, some will sleep while others wake,
Yet each lives for a time...
Till something comes our lives to take...
Yet life goes on sublime...
Our children face the future fields
And they will question why
Another crop each grows and yields
And never seems to die...
The cheetah rested patiently...
Appointments he had none...
He only felt tranquillity
Beneath the gentle sun...

Denis Martindale, copyright, September 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Sunset'.
Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/sunset-85/

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

"ENIGMATIC" READ OUT ON PRICE-DROP TV

During the September 2009 £1 Megadrop Madness Weekends,
my Stephen Gayford wildlife poem, "Enigmatic" was
read out to the UK Freeview viewers on price-drop tv.
Amazingly, the wildlife picture was sold for just £1...

Here is a reminder of the poem which I added in August.

http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com/2009/08/enigmatic.html

ENIGMATIC

The leopard lingered all alone,
At rest for all to see.
With curled-up tail, in mid-air zone,
That stayed there playfully.
Sometimes a leopard finds a spot
Where all seems quite serene...
A wistful part he likes a lot,
To melt into that scene...
Thus time itself slowed down as well,
Life settled to a pause...
In fact, there was no way to tell,
Except the sun, of course.
You see, the sun is prone to move
Across the pale blue sky...
As if it had something to prove,
Yet leopards know not why...
This leopard knew that sleep was near,
He felt it in his bones.
He sensed the sun would disappear,
Replaced by darkened tones.
Then shadows bring old dangers back
And predators that pounce...
When hunters prowl in midnight black,
Survival's all that counts.
For now, the sunshine was his friend...
If he stayed here, static...
That's why his mood was confident,
Cool and enigmatic...
Sunbathers know the peaceful glow
The sun was meant to share.
Why not let go? Just take things slow...
Forsaking every care...

Denis Martindale, copyright, August 2009.

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Enigmatic'.

SEPTEMBER 2009 POEM UPDATE!

THE POEM WAS READ OUT ON PRICE-DROP TV,
SO MAYBE THOUSANDS OR EVEN MILLIONS OF THE UK
£1 MEGADROP MADNESS VIEWERS HEARD MY POEM!
YES! THE STEPHEN GAYFORD PICTURE WAS SOLD FOR £1.

My Poetry website is http://poem.says.it

The poem has been shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/enigmatic-2/

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

STEPHEN GAYFORD PICTURE SEARCHES

You can easily check the Stephen Gayford
picture prints on the Sit-Up TV Channels:

For bid.tv on UK Freeview and Sky, etc:

http://tinyurl.com/gayfordb

For price-drop.tv on Freeview and Sky, etc:

http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpd

For speeadauction.tv on Sky, etc:

http://tinyurl.com/gayfordsa

There is either a graphic for a website or a tv deal.

Compare all 3 websites for current prices and if
they are cheaper than the same item on TV right now!
You could save a fiver or a tenner or even more!

Prices depend on customer demand, time of day or if
the channel's struggling to keep on time, as that's
when prices can really drop! Especially for the more
expensive canvas prints with their fancy gold frames!

Check the times of each auction on each channel as
you may have missed out on a previous favourite...

The website images don't do justice to the TV show
close-ups which prove how detailed the prints are.

Websites:

http://www.bid.tv
http://www.price-drop.tv
http://www.speedauction.tv

RAINFOREST PHANTOMS

The leopards listen to each noise
Of their surrounding sounds...
On steadfast feet they gently poise,
Resisting fearful bounds.
Perhaps it isn't time to run,
Like cowards fearing pain,
Or just like girls who love the sun,
Yet flee from falling rain...
The leopards like the spot they've seen,
It suits them to a tee...
They'll stay till others intervene,
Like phantoms on their tree...
The forest has its moody times,
Its fierce and frantic days,
Its pleasant passing sunny climes
And melting dew-dropped phase...
The sun shines through the trees above,
The clouds go gliding by...
And soon the moon will shine with love,
To grace the midnight sky...
The leopards lack for nothing now,
Two friends in harmony...
Receiving what the Fates allow,
Like phantoms, fancy free...

Denis Martindale, copyright, September 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Rainforest Phantoms'.
Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/rainforest-phantoms/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/rainforestphantoms

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

EYE OF THE LEOPARD

Determination serves him well,
Tenacity and truth...
The leopard knows life's weary spell!
He's felt it from his youth.
He must not sleep! His eye must see!
There's danger all around!
This is the price of living free,
Undaunted and unbound.
The leopard loiters, sniffs the air,
His eye looks left and right...
Of every movement he's aware
Through instincts and insight...
Each day's the same, if he survives,
To tread the earth alone,
To hunt in search of other lives,
Because that's all he's known...
His hunger drives him on and on...
Relentless, still, of course...
He hunts until the hunger's gone,
Then feeds without remorse.
His eye has seen so many things
That swim and crawl and fly...
Above him now, a pair of wings
That glide across the sky!
The leopard sighs with envy at
The bird beyond his reach!
If he had wings, he'd make him scat!
What tricks that bird he'd teach!
The leopard looks, then walks his way,
Towards survival's end...
So he can hunt another day,
Unloved, without a friend...

　
Denis Martindale, copyright, August 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the National Geographic
Wild HD details received from Sky Digital for
the September 2009 programme called
'Eye Of The Leopard'. Fully featured on pages
20 and 21 of the September 2009 Sky Magazine!
　
　
Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/eye-of-the-leopard/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/eyeoftheleopard

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com
　
The framed pictures are bought from these
UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv
　

CONTENTMENT

The lioness paused and sighed and stayed,
Her hothead cubs in tow,
For now, they stopped, the cubs obeyed
And they were lying low.
The sun still laboured in the sky,
The day went gently on...
They stared and watched the circle fly
So calmly as it shone.
How could they know its flames of fire?
Its furies far away?
Its spurting streams ascending higher?
Its passions night and day?
To them, the sun was like an eye
That witnessed good and bad...
And punished them and made them fry
And thirst till they went mad...
Yet mercy fell from Heaven, too...
Like raindrops and like tears...
And new days came with morning dew...
That melted all their fears...
And so, by faith, contentment flowed
As long as rivers lived...
To such as these their lives were owed
And life is no small gift...
The waters helped the trees stand tall,
Reach out and offer shade...
The lioness observed it all...
The way such things were made...
Yet only we can give God praise
For all that He has done...
Contentment comes... Contentment stays...
When wisdom's work is done...

Denis Martindale, copyright, August 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Contentment'.
Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/contentment-25/

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.speedauction.tv

price-drop tv on UK Freeview channel 43

August 2009 UK Freeview Update!

Yes, price-drop tv returns to UK Freeview after a long absence. So many customers requested it be on UK Freeview again. It means more Stephen Gayford pictures will be appearing for UK Freeview customers, too. Hopefully that means that price-drop tv will buy in more stock and feature more auctions during each week, especially in time for Christmas and the New Year.

My name has been mentioned in the past when the TV presenters and assistants discuss Stephen Gayford pictures and collectors. My poems are mentioned, too. I look forward to seeing some new titles featured on the websites and the TV channels and in the email newsletters...

WAITING FOR NIGHTFALL

Lionesses waiting for nightfall...
Time slipping by... so slow...
Twilight beckons them, with its call,
Bidding them soon to go.
'Come, my ladies, our time draws near,
When yonder sun must part
And silver moon must then appear,
The midnight dance to start...
Enchantments wait in shadows still,
When spirits roam the land...
Yet none of these can share the thrill
Of what tonight has planned...
This evening's sky will say goodbye
And darkness rules once more...
Then silvered twinkling eyes will spy
The truth behind each roar!
Behold the night! The fearsome thing!
When Nature's secrets hide
And creatures that can bite and sting
Won't sleep until they've tried...
Come, my ladies, our time is close,
We hunt for food in pairs...
If not, we starve, death overthrows
And ends our night affairs...
Our solemn business soon begins...
Our partnership persists...
May God forgive us for our sins...
As long as each exists...'

Denis Martindale, copyright, August 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Waiting For Nightfall'.
Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/waiting-for-nightfall/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/waitingfornightfall

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv
http://www.speedauction.tv

YOUNG HOPEFUL

There comes a time when tigers sense
A pattern in their lives,
Of being born, of making friends
And adulthood arrives.
From that day on, life's journey turns
To take on one more quest...
When everything inside them yearns
To always do their best.
The playful games seem foolish now...
They feel so out of touch...
To them, they bid a final bow,
Though they were loved so much.
It's time to stand, eyes open wide.
It's time to learn to track.
It's time to hunt at father's side.
It's time to watch his back.
It's time to know what teamwork means
And not just running fast...
That's why this tiger looks alert.
He's found his place at last.
Young hopeful, who knows what's ahead?
Life grants no certainty!
For now, give thanks each time you're fed...
Enjoy your family...
One day, perhaps, you'll find a mate,
With offspring of your own...
And with her you can celebrate...
The greatest joy that's known...

Denis Martindale, copyright, August 2009.

My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Young Hopeful'.
Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/young-hopeful/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/younghopeful

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv
http://www.speedauction.tv

ROYALTY

Consider creatures great and small
That live upon this Earth...
In fact, we cannot count them all
Or estimate their worth...
Yet here they are, they have their place,
Like birds that fill the skies!
Like fish that swim with gentle grace,
In tropic seas so nice!
On land, we find the lion rules,
A true majestic lord!
We learn of him within our schools...
How can he be ignored?
Untamed, unchanged, defiant still,
His roar sounds far and wide!
It makes the bravest hearts to chill,
That cannot be denied...
He always keeps us pondering,
The second he is seen.
This creature has been called a king...
The lioness, his queen...
As long as lions have their place,
His kingdom carries on...
Until we can no longer trace
These big cats... then it's gone...
It must be said, he looks the part!
Behold his majesty!
So bold he looks a work of art!
Like proper royalty!

Denis Martindale, copyright, August 2009.
My Poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Royalty'.
Shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/royalty-6/

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems or
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv
http://www.speedauction.tv

AUGUST 2009 UPDATE

I'm currently working on promoting Stephen Gayford.

He is a wildlife artist whose paintings are sold as prints:

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv
http://www.speedauction.tv

These UK Shopping sites sometimes have Art Evenings.

I watch the broadcasts on Sky Digital and Freeview TV.

My 2009 Stephen Gayford poems are here:

http://www.poemhunter.com/search/?q=Gayford&Submit=Find&w=text

Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems

Or here:

Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2

A Google image search for Stephen Gayford will show the artwork.

Lions and tigers are my favourites... so far...

August 2009 UPDATE:

Bid tv is on the TWITTER website and a link to my poems

was posted there: http://twitter.com/bidtv

Love Stephen Gayford? Here is a link to poetry inspired by
Stephen Gayford's prints - written by one of our customers.

http://bit.ly/16jh3o

7:41 AM Jun 3rd 2009 from TweetDeck

Thank you for sharing that link to the poemhunter website!

Regards, Denis Martindale, August 2009.

Here is a reminder of what this tribute blog is about:

STEPHEN GAYFORD

Masterpieces for the masses!
Loved lithographs! Sweet prints!
A treasure trove of canvasses
With wondrous shades and tints.
Consider how this painter hopes
To capture all he can.
Reflect on how he always copes
And stays the artisan.
With finite detail to control,
To share his point of view,
This artist has a special soul,
A noble spirit, too.
Rejecting basics and extremes,
Perfection to create.
Respecting quintessential dreams
And so encapsulate...
It's finished, no more need to fuss!
What glory this achieves!
Rejoicing in what's done for us,
That each, in time, receives.
There's joy as we anticipate
This craftsman's artistry!
Yes, all things come to those that wait...
Yet patience is the key...
How many paintings Stephen's done,
In truth, I cannot say,
Yet he portrays a sense of fun
At work, at home, at play...
If you're like me, you've got a few
To beautify your home...
So, Stephen, thank you! God bless you!
Wherever you may roam...

Denis Martindale, copyright, June 2009.

My poetry website: http://poem.says.it

The poem is based on the magnificent paintings by artist
Stephen Gayford, as featured on UK Freeview's bid tv.

The poem has been shared on this website:
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/stephen-gayford/

The Gayford paintings poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2

And here http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these UK websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on UK Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv
http://www.speedauction.tv

WISTFUL

The wistful tiger wondered why
Some leaves were making noise...
He watched them slowly moving by
Yet knew they had no choice...
Something alive was very close...
And yet what could it be?
There was no scent that reached his nose...
It stayed a mystery...
Then all at once, as if by chance,
He saw some ants below...
They made those tiny leaves to dance
As onward they must go.
The wistful tiger humbly praised
The strength they all possessed
And marvelled as he stared amazed,
For teamwork made them blessed!
From them, that's how his hunting plans
Formed in his mind that day...
Wise is the mind that understands
That there's a better way!
From that day on, his thoughts evolved,
To copy Nature's friends,
Who worked things out till they were solved!
On this, success depends!
Mankind has learnt this lesson, too...
He's learnt to swim and fly...
He's made some profit from each clue
That Nature's friends supply.
From submarines to aeroplanes,
Cows' milk and bees' honey,
From small machines to awesome trains!
Wisdom helps make money!
Inventors test their patents out
In countries far and wide!
So like the tiger, look about!
Let Nature be your guide...
You might get rich someday, real soon
And live life like a king!
If Nature's friends grant you a boon,
Who knows what Fate may bring?

Denis Martindale, copyright, August 2009.

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Wistful'.

My Poetry website is http://poem.says.it
The poem has been shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/wistful-5/

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv
http://www.speedauction.tv

COOLING DOWN TIME

The tiger touched the water's edge...
What wonderment he felt...
As if cascading from a ledge,
His tensions seemed to melt...
The sun was not as harsh or fierce,
His coat was not so warm...
When hearts feel good, each burden clears
And gentle dreams take form.
His tender toes walked on soft mud...
His muscles eased once more...
The water helped to cool his blood,
So why should he explore?
Heavy's the head that wears the crown,
In charge of everything...
That's why he stayed and settled down...
Relaxing like a king...
Blessed by water he loves so dear,
Beneath the shady trees...
A wise man won't approach him here...
Not while he's found some peace...

Denis Martindale, copyright, August 2009.

The poem is based on the magnificent painting
by Stephen Gayford called 'Cooling Down Time'.

My Poetry website is http://poem.says.it

The poem has been shared on
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/cooling-down-time/
Shortcut: http://tinyurl.com/coolingdowntime

The Gayford poems can be viewed here:
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems
http://tinyurl.com/gayfordpoems2
http://denis-martindale.blogspot.com

The framed pictures are bought from these websites:
http://www.bid.tv (on Freeview)
http://www.price-drop.tv
http://www.speedauction.tv