There isn’t much in knitting that scares me. I can k3togtbl, I can cut a steek whilst stone-cold sober, and I laugh in the face of complex colourwork (unless it’s intarsia, in which case I sigh and then untangle all 76 bobbins for the eleventy millionth time). But today, I’m anxious.
You see, I’ve finished the book-blanket that I designed and made for my dear friend Mary, and yesterday I wrapped it up and took it to the Post Office. Quick summary in case you missed the original post: Mary has just had major surgery, and she wisely planned to spend her recuperation surrounded by all her books, reading for day after day. But her house can get chilly, so she agreed that I could make her a blanket. Here’s the result:-
But now, I’m worried, because WHAT IF SHE DOESN’T LIKE IT?! No please, hear me out. Mary is a woman of taste, and she knows exactly what she likes and what she doesn’t like. I’m not sure which side of the fence this blanket will fall. The yarn is Stylecraft Special Aran With Wool, by the way, and it’s very cosy and snuggly.
So I took the package to the Post Office. No, I told the nice woman behind the counter, the parcel didn’t contain anything of notable monetary value. (But…) She tossed it on the pile of mail beside her, and I silently wondered whether she was knitworthy.
By the time I got home, the blanket was probably in a bright red van on its way to the sorting office. By the time I was lying awake in the middle of the night thinking about it, it was probably on a train, speeding over the Severn Bridge as it crossed into Wales. And so, it being 3.00 in the morning, I started thinking about that famously rhythmic poem by WH Auden, which I’m sure you’ll agree is a very 3am sort of thing to do:-
This is the night mail crossing the border,
Bringing the cheque and the postal order,
Letters for the rich, letters for the poor,
The shop at the corner, the girl next door.
Pulling up Beattock, a steady climb:
The gradient’s against her, but she’s on time.
Past cotton-grass and moorland boulder,
Shovelling white steam over her shoulder.
Snorting noisily as she passes
Silent miles of wind-bent grasses.
Birds turn their heads as she approaches,
Stare from bushes at her blank-faced coaches.
Sheep-dogs cannot turn her course;
They slumber on with paws across.
In the farm she passes no-one wakes,
But a jug in a bedroom gently shakes.
Postal orders? Pah! Contactless credit cards more like. So, it being 3am, as I said, I started inventing a little update…
This is the night mail crossing the border,
Bringing the bills and the eBay order.
Brochures for the rich, junk-mail for the poor,
The vape-shop on the corner, the students next door.
Slowing near Cardiff, losing time;
Electrification would help this line.
On wonky rails – I could’ve told her,
This rolling-stock is getting older.
Honking loudly as she passes
Smokers outside, clutching glasses.
The town still throbs as she approaches,
Watched by sneaking rats and roaches.
The urban fox can’t turn her course,
He sniffs the bins, decides to pause.
In the flats she passes, some bloke sleeps,
Whilst the phone on his night-stand rudely beeps.
Um, yes, anyway. That’s the sort of thing my brain gets up to at 3.00 in the morning, in case you were wondering… which you probably weren’t. Sorry, WH Auden.
And now it’s a new day and Mary might, just might, have received her blanket this morning.
I wonder why I feel so tired today…
Carolyn J Harness says
My word! That blanket/book is amazing! How could someone not love it, and the person who made it for them? And your poem re-do is great too. One time a whole poem came to me at 3 a.m. as I was struggling with a horrible divorce, and I composed “The Ballad of Brucie the Louse”, and laughed as each rhyming couplet came to me, faster and faster! The best sleepless night I ever spent!
Love your artistry.
The Twisted Yarn says
Now I really do love the sound of ‘The Ballad Of Brucie The Louse’. Are we allowed to see it here????
Ella says
She will love it. Seriously, what’s not to love about this blanket?
The Twisted Yarn says
I hope so…
Annie says
How big is the book/blanket ?, true labour of love.
Your Book winged it’s way to Wales, the Royal Mail no longer use trains they’ve realised that to make you dreams come true you have to let them fly.
The Twisted Yarn says
Oh no! My poem doesn’t work, then! *sigh*
As for size, it’s pretty big, but I stupidly didn’t stop to measure it. Those are my feet showing on the final picture, if that helps you get an idea of scale.
Daphne says
Oh, you really are some talented lady what a wonderful blanket, and what a lovely thing to do for your friend. I bet she was in tears when she received it, and it will be so snuggle and warm, and I’m sure she will snuggle up in it even she has recovered too. Love your poem, and for reminding me of the original you can just imagine the train chugging along. Each time a post comes through to me I have a big smile on my face, knowing I shall love reading your ramblings, your wit, and talent. Bless you Avid reader Daphne x
The Twisted Yarn says
Gosh, I hardly know where to begin with my thanks for every part of your lovely comment. If I can make people smile – even a little – then I’m honoured, and my work here is done! And yes, hopefully Mary will like her blanket…
Alison Harding says
Absolutely beautiful work ! I’d love to wrap myself in something as cosy and full of love as this is. It’s beyond beautiful xxx Alison x
The Twisted Yarn says
Thank you. It’s certainly going to be warm, because it’s made of two layers sewn together.
Lorna says
You’ve done it again and achieved wonder with wool and needles. Knitting really is magic ( and you’re one of my favourite magicians!)
The Twisted Yarn says
I agree that knitting is a kind of magic. Given enough time, we can make anything with a couple of sticks and some string.
The Little Room of Rachell says
Fabulous Phil. Amazing gift.
The Twisted Yarn says
Thank you. 🙂
Mary says
The Little Room of Rachel – yes it is. I feel very lucky and grateful
curvywitch says
Wow! She will be thrilled, absolutely thrilled! It’s brilliant.
The Twisted Yarn says
I hope so………
Gillian Scott says
Beautiful blanket, so much thought and love gone into it. Brilliant post loving your version of the night train????
The Twisted Yarn says
Thanks! The poem was a lot of fun to (re)write!
nothingbutknit2 says
The blanket is amazing!! She will be thrilled or whatever is beyond thrilled.
The Twisted Yarn says
Awww, thanks! 🙂
Alissa Head says
It’s so lovely. What a thoughtful gift.
The Twisted Yarn says
Thank you. Seriously. 🙂
Mary says
The Twisted Yarn – thank you ????
Karen Boehlert says
I think you’re nuts! (Lol) Seriously, that blanket is beyond words. I had to choke back tears…got to go to work in a few minutes and can’t fix mascara. To be loved and cared for is a beautiful gift and your blanket is all that and the bow on top. Her heart will be full.
The Twisted Yarn says
Oh no! I’m sorry for messing up your mascara! But thank you for your kind words.
Keep Calm and Crochet On UK says
As someone that can’t actually knit I am simply astounded by your amazing blanket, it’s like a book for heavens sake! How is that even possible! And undoubtedly your friend is going to just love it! What a truly wonderful and memorable gift!
The Twisted Yarn says
I must admit that it was quite fiddly, so I’m not sure that I’ll be making another one!
And thank you for such a lovely comment.
anne richards says
What a wonderful friend you are!
The Twisted Yarn says
It’s the least that Mary deserves.
Sue says
This is f…a…n…t…a…s…t…i..c, what a lovely friend you are. So enjoyed the poem knew it off by heart as a schoolgirl. WELL DONEXX
The Twisted Yarn says
I’m glad I’m not the only one who knows the poem! Thank you for your kind words.
Gallivanta says
The blanket is brilliantly stylish and beautiful. And no need to apologise to Auden, in my view. Your version of the poem is as good as the original. Question, do you think Auden composed his poem at 3 am?
The Twisted Yarn says
Ha, he probably did! It’s a good time to be creative.
Jennifer Tuggle says
This is truly one of the most beautiful knit things I’ve ever seen! Your talent and your generosity are extraordinary! The knitting – truly amazing. I’ve knit for years and am still on “beginner level” patterns – so I appreciate the incredible workmanship of this amazing blanket. And what a special friend you are! Your friend is very very lucky. Thank you for sharing!
The Twisted Yarn says
Thank you – that’s very kind. (You know how to make a grown woman blush!) Other people’s work always looks impressive – I get your knits look amazing to people who haven’t knitted them. Hope that makes sense?!
Mary says
Yes I feel very honoured, blessed and lucky. Not only for the blanket but for such having The Twisted Yarn in my life
Phil beesley says
What a wonderful thing to do for a friend
The Twisted Yarn says
She absolutely deserves it.
Heather says
Your friend will love it, discerning taste or no. What a gift we knitters are given: the ability to physically wrap people in our friendship and love. Bravo. This blanket is a treasure.
The Twisted Yarn says
You’re right: we are fortunate as knitters that we can do that for the people we love. Thank you.
Nancy Rodgers says
What a wonderful friend you are! You and Mary are both blessed!
The Twisted Yarn says
Thank you – that’s very kind.
Margaret Riley says
What a wonderful friend you are Phil. How could Mary not love it xxx
The Twisted Yarn says
Thank you – I hope so!
Sandy Grant says
You, Madam, are an amazing wordsmith and even more amazing knitter. That is an amazing display of love, and I’m sure Mary will relish in it every time she snuggles up in it.
The Twisted Yarn says
And you are very kind and generous to say such a thing! Thank you. I hope she’ll like it, but at least she’ll realize that it was made and given with love.
Barbara a,I says
I am totally in awe of your wonderful gift and have no doubt that it will be treasured by your friend.
The Twisted Yarn says
Hope so – she really deserves something nice.
Mary says
Aw shucks ☺️
Jane Ezell says
It is nothing less than spectacular. I am inspired. Your creativity is exemplified in this treasure.
The Twisted Yarn says
Thank you – even if those words are kinder than any that I deserve!
Jane Sturgeon says
Ahh Phil, you are a magician and Mary will feel the love in every stitch of this. It is an heirloom and she will treasure it. You are so talented….hugs. <3
The Twisted Yarn says
Thank you. It certainly was knitted with love, and she’ll probably know that.
Ms Sue says
That is the best present ever and she will absolutely love it! Your work is beautiful and always so original.
The Twisted Yarn says
Thank you! I’m pretty confident that there isn’t another similar blanket out there!
Naomi says
If she is a women of taste, then she knows love. Your beautiful and thoughtful blanket is pure love. She will be overwhelmed by the love she can hug in your gift.
Naomi says
If she is a women of taste, then she knows love. Your beautiful and thoughtful blanket is pure love. She will be overwhelmed by the love she can hug in your gift.
The Twisted Yarn says
Thank you, and I hope you’re right.
Mary Karr says
It’s simply lovely. Thank you for sharing that poem. I have never heard it before and the update was awesome. You reminded me how much I like poetry. Peace dearheart. Sleep well tonight.
The Twisted Yarn says
It’s a wonderful poem. (I only quoted the first part.) The rhythm of the verse matches the rhythm of a train. Thank you for such kind words.
Jo says
WOW! Just, WOW! I’ve been following this adventure and your friend will LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it…I do! This post made me cry but a good cry, a “thank-goodness-there-are-still-such-amazing-and-kind-people-in-the-world” cry! ❤️
The Twisted Yarn says
Oh no! Should I send you some tissues? But seriously, thank you so much for your generous words. Mary is a good person and a good friend, and this blanket is the least she deserves.
Nicola says
Best Blanket of 2018 Award should be winging its way to you around now! So many superlatives but I will use just one – Fabulous!
The Twisted Yarn says
Ha! Thank you, although I’ve certainly seen better blankets… though possibly not any crazier ones.
dressedincrochet says
Stunning! Both your needles and your words, as always. I do enjoy your offerings, thank you.
The Twisted Yarn says
And thank YOU for taking the time to say so. I appreciate your kind words.
Joanne Grace Hortensius says
The blanket is amazing!! Your friend will love it and the thought and time you put into it. Loved both poems too. I think WH would be proud!!
The Twisted Yarn says
Or possibly, WH is turning in his grave! We’ll never know – I hope…
Ann P Wilson says
Brilliiant – you, the blanket, the vision – words fail me. Never stop – you’re a gift to all who are in touch with you in any way. Bloom and grow, you marvelous creature!
The Twisted Yarn says
Thank you. I have way more than my share of faults, but thank you for seeing the positives!
Gail Dixon says
Absolutely brilliant! ????????????
The Twisted Yarn says
Aww, thanks! (And I love the Christmas tree emojis!)
Elizabeth Buxton says
Wow, it’s amazing! Of course she’ll love it, she’s probably in tears of emotion as we speak.
You are a true friend.
Liz.
The Twisted Yarn says
Thank you. I hope so. It’s the least that she deserves.
Mary Megarry says
Hi Everyone but especially the amazing person who writes this astounding blog and is a knitting marvel, Phil. As the recipient of the article in question, I can firstly allay all fears it arrived safely today. WH Auden would have known about the Severn Bridge and the M4 (just) but only Chris Rea seems to find anything lyrical in motorways. My point is that I feel my beautiful Afghan has travelled many miles
By road. As Elton John eloquently sang in Blues for my Baby and Me (Don’t Shoit Me I’m Only The Piano Player 1972) – “gonna go west to the sea”. The Afghan/book has done that. It is by the sea – almost as far west as you can go before hitting Backstop (note, topicality)
It is the most beautiful item. It even has a bookmark. But what makes it so wonderful is thé lové and friendship in it, the sentiment and genuine feelings. It will bring so much comfort, physically and emotionally as well as visually. From the bottom of my heart, The Twisted Yarn I thank you. And to all your followers, thank you for all your get well wishes. The op seems to have been successful – two years though apparently before I fully appreciate it. Thank you xxxxx
Laura says
I’m really glad it arrived safely. Such a wonderful gift! Hope you’ll get well soon and appreciate the result of your operation well before two years. Lots of love.
SisterJoyous says
Oh how lovely that you replied on here for us all to see!! Phil, you’re clearly the most wonderful kind of friend, and Mary, what a woman of tenacity you must be,! Here’s to friendship, reading, recovery and the recuperative power of handmade gifts. May your recovery and a reunion happen swiftly :0) XXX
Jane Sturgeon says
<3 Mary, you are wrapped in Phil's lovely blanket and healing love. So lovely to see you on here. <3
pomegranateandchintz says
Fabulous! Both the blanket and the revised poem. Well done you.
MrsD says
I don’t often leave comments on posts I stumble across on Pinterest. One of your Christmas posts made me stop and want to dig a little further.
This made me cry a little. You have created not only an amazing blanket, but an absolute beautiful way of expressing how much you care. I have tried to create as many gifts as possible this year. The few I have purchased have been from small local businesses. Each gift has been carefully thought out and even tho some are smaller I hope all are loved and the thought i put into them is shown. I can only dream of having a friend like you. You say your friend has a particular taste? I don’t think there is one person on this planet who can say true friendship is not to their liking. Merry Christmas to you and your family x
Ann M. says
I am very kindly offering to take the Afghan/art piece out of your friend’s hands. This way you will not have to be up all night worrying about how much she will love it. Your friend won’t have to “fake love it”. And everyone will be happy.
It is beautiful and the love that you have infused with every stitch will help your friend heal that much faster.
MaryAnne Hoebeke says
This is a true gift of friendship. Lovely.
Jan says
Stunning!! Your friend will love the blanket and the love and thought that went into making it. And I only wish my brain would function at 3am – I usually just lie awake cursing the fact that I’m lying awake.
Sarah says
It’s absolutely stunning, you’re so talented!
nanacathy2 says
The book is perfect and I love the updated poem!
tinaor says
If she doesn’t love it there is a plethora of others who will….. such a lovely, lovely gift for Mary.
Sharon says
That is a truly awesome blanket, Phyll. Of course she’ll love it!
BTW – trains to South Wales go via the Severn Tunnel, a brilliant bit of Victorian engineering c/o the Great Western Railway company – back in the day when GWR really was a _railway_ company and not the ersatz Faux G W Reliablyunreliable it has subsequently become. But what would you expect from a Train company run by a (largely foreign owned) Bus company?
Ahem. Sorry, sore point, I’ve been mucked around by FGWR too many times. But your knitting – what talent!
Rainbow Junkie says
What a wonderful labour of love. How can she not, not just like it, but love it? Enjoyed your updated poem too.
Sandra says
Amazing! I’m sure she will love it and I love the poem update too! ????. S x
Carol Erickson says
Finally I’ve gotten to read about the end of the “story blanket” epic. It’s been intriguing, inspiring, fascinating and a tiny bit exhausting and I love it. Kudos to you, Miss “twisted yarn”. New possibilities loom large on my horizon, even as I contemplate what to do with the new yarn when I vowed I would not buy any more, but what can one do when on a trip to places not likely to be seen again. First I must finish the cardigan I abandoned for this trip. And mourn the probable loss of a in progress lacy green neck-warmer cowl lost along with the rest of the bag, somewhere at Schiphol on December 15th.
Faye. Maplestone says
A blanket made of LOVE . What more could you want ? Christmas wishes to the loving , and the loved. May the New Year bring all that you both wish. And may the hands be for ever twinkling away at new ideas. Love from “down under” Fayexxxx