Transposition of Care

I have lived so long in this place and I have born witness to life.
I am moved around at their will…waiting,
Waiting to feel the warmness of their form to weigh on me, to nestle in me.
I have known happiness and joy, sadness and loss
I know what it is like to carry new life, young life and life that is ageing.
But the feeling of emptiness…when I hold no one.

—

It is dark. It is night. I hear her cries I am aware of her pain
As I am of her fear.
It is still night but now it is quiet
I cannot influence only watch.

—

I remember a time when there was hope
I was in a different place then.
The glow of contentment strengthened me
I was comforted by the softness of pastels, ribbons and crocheted shawls,
Swathed in white cotton I listened
To cries that were new – no endings only beginnings.

—

I am at peace and I feel valued. Every joint of my structure remembers
And I will hold their memory with me,
Their hellos and their goodbye’s
And know I feel humbled to have been in their presence.

—

“Transposition of Care” is a poignant piece written from the perspective of a chair, exploring themes of companionship and the passage of time. The narrative beautifully captures the chair’s role as a silent witness to life’s moments – from joy to sadness, from new beginnings to endings. Through elegant prose, we experience the chair’s deep connection to those who rest upon it, its awareness of their emotions, and its understanding of its purpose in providing comfort and support. The story stands out for its unique viewpoint, transforming an everyday object into a compassionate observer of human life. It reflects on the chair’s journey from witnessing new life in its early days, surrounded by “pastels, ribbons and crocheted shawls,” to its current role as a keeper of memories, holding both “hellos and goodbyes”.

This touching story is part of Lillian Bradbury’s collection, which showcases her talent for finding extraordinary perspectives in ordinary objects. As a member of the ‘Wordbotherers’ writing group in Pickering, North Yorkshire, Bradbury brings a distinctly British charm to her storytelling. Her work invites readers to see the world through fresh eyes, reminding us that every object has a story to tell. If you enjoy thoughtful, imaginative writing that makes you look at the world differently, you’ll find yourself at home in Bradbury’s world.