miss marie's miscellany

Keats, costumes and crochet.

I went to see 'Bright Star', the film about John Keats and his love affair with the girl-next- door, Fanny Brawne. It's a treat for the eyes, and I enjoyed it; although the pace was slow, it depicted beautifully the stillness and quiet of how life must have been in early nineteenth century Hampstead village. Apart from domestic tasks, time is spent by the characters in contemplative, often silent pursuits; reading, walking and in particular, sewing. Fanny is an accomplished seamstress and her vibrant outfits are a real stand-out, colourful and unusual. One of the costumes has made quite an impression on me, it's the cardigan in this picture.

 

Isn't it lovely?! I've found myself thinking about whether it's knitted or crocheted, I think possibly the latter and if it could be re-created!? It looks like little flowers joined together by crocheted chains. I wonder..........!! It will have to go on my long list of things to research and dream about making. I found a nice article in the Guardian about the costumes, which are on display at Keats' House in Hampstead. What a treat it would be to see them in the place where much of the poet's most famous work was written.

Knit a Poem

I read with interest about the Poetry Society's latest project;  the world's first knitted poem, being made to mark the PS's centenary. I wonder if Carol Ann Duffy will be getting her needles out!  The poem will be assembled from letters on 12"  knitted and crocheted squares into a 40 feet long work. As yet, the selected poem is being kept a secret, which adds a bit of mystery too! I'm not sure my knitting or crochet skills are up to the job, but if you fancy having a go, they are still looking for volunteers to make more letters, take a look at the Poetry Society's website. Lots of stuff of the poetic kind there too, so if you like a bit of verse, it's a interesting read too.