Yan, Tan, Tether,
That’s way ti count tha sheep
That’s what mi Grandad telt me,
Afore I went ti sleep
Fasten yat behint the,
Tha musn’t let ’em stray
Now; close thine eyes mi little un,
and reest amongst fresh hay
We’ve had a grand day, thee, and me
Thou running all hither ‘n thither
Me trying to kep up wid t’awd dog
As we chassed them gimmers through t’heather
So. Mek sure that thee gets a good reest
‘Cos tomorrow we’re back out ont brow
When we’ll chass ’em agin,
’til they’re all in’t reet pen
And I’ll larn thee ti count Shepherds measure.
PJ.
© 2022
I spent a great deal of time with my Grandad when I was a child growing up in North Yorkshire. He spoke in a dialect, specific to the area that has unfortunately long since gone. I have tried to recapture, at least, the flavour of the language here. And, of course the love we had for each other.
“Hither and Tether” is a heartwarming glimpse into Yorkshire’s pastoral heritage, capturing a tender moment between a grandfather and grandchild. Written in authentic Yorkshire dialect, the poem weaves together the traditional sheep-counting method “Yan, Tan, Tether” with a touching bedtime scene. The imagery of chasing “gimmers through t’heather” and the gentle encouragement to rest paint a vivid picture of rural life, while the promise to teach the “Shepherds measure” speaks to the passing down of cultural traditions. The poet masterfully preserves not just the words but the warmth of this intergenerational bond, making it a poignant tribute to both Yorkshire’s farming heritage and family connections.
“Daftness and Other Afflictions” is Peter Watson’s delightful collection of verses that dance between whimsy and wisdom. Based in North Yorkshire, Watson crafts poems that speak to the heart of everyday experiences, from childhood memories to life’s deeper contemplations. His work, as part of the Wordbotherers writing group in Pickering, brings a refreshing authenticity to contemporary poetry. If you’ve ever yearned for verses that feel like a chat with an old friend over a cup of Yorkshire tea, this collection is sure to warm your soul.
