‘SOUNDING RECALL’ THE POEMS OF PHILIP JOHN STEAD

Philip John Stead,  British poet and author and recognized world expert on all matters concerning police and criminology  led a life that encompassed serving in World War II and teaching at Bramshill Police College in England and the John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York City.    He was a member of the Critics Circle in London and elected in 1953 a Fellow in the Royal Society of Literature.  He was also appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth and his painting was hung beside hers in New Scotland Yard.   Retiring to Cape Cod in 1982 John Stead descended from his lofty ranks and became involved with the grassroots Cape Cod Radio Mystery Theater.  Not only acting in several productions (chiefly notable: his spellbinding opening narrative to  'The Whirlpool) but also  lending his extensive knowledge and expertise in honing scripts  prior to production.

'Sounding Recall' is slim  volume of Mr. Stead's poems, bequeathed to Mr. Oney upon his death.  Poems include: 'Wit and Beatuy', 'A Pilot Killed', 'Prayer for a New Year' , 'Confession for a Ghost' and 'October Fair, Barnsley'.   For those whose sensibilities are wide-ranging enough to permit them to enjoy a good book of  poetry as much as a good radio mystery this volume is highly recommended.

SAMPLE:      'FETTERS'

Why should I pity those of absent mind

Who don't recall when, where –or if–we met?

Imperfect memory is often kind:

My heart goes out to those who can't forget.