We Came Before You and Other Poems

This manuscript of 31 self-illustrated poems having animals/birds/insects/reptiles as the leitmotif has manifold objectives. • Firstly, as the title suggests, it is to remind readers that we humans are effectively tenants in this world which is owned and let out to us by other living creatures – animals, birds etc. We thereby have our duties and responsibilities towards them and must be indebted to them for their kindness. Secondly, there is a lot we can learn from animals, birds and insects. Remember King Bruce and the spider which taught him a valuable lesson? And we have a host of animal similes – as brave as a lion, as busy as a bee, as free as a bird, as gentle as a lamb, as wise as an owl, and so on. Thirdly, while a lot of work is being done by dedicated individuals and organisations for animal/bird welfare, this is a product of the inspiration which all these people have provided – to contribute a little in my own way. All the sketches have been made by the poet himself.