A few days ago I published a picture of a path passing through a grove of yew trees with the prospect of sunny fields beyond. As this was far too jolly, I've searched out an image with a more sombre aspect to counter it.
I often return to this flight of steps in Great Malvern to make images. Local photographers sometimes pose wedding couples in front of it - perhaps to symbolise the uphill struggle they have in their lives ahead (what a cynical point-of-view, Bush - shame on you!).
For me, they offer a prospect of mystery. The steps turn right around a blind bend at the top. As you mount them, your destination is invisible. They are steep. Little old ladies stride past as you fight for breath - you have to be tough to live on the slopes of the Malverns. For some reason, which only evolution will determine, it is a town popular with retired people.
If you survive the steps, you emerge onto a steep path which winds up through overhanging trees to an ancient well. Cool, clear water spurts out from the hillside into a limestone basin, housed in the entrance to a cafe. Inside kind people will sell you the best apple and almond cake* I have ever tasted. It's worth every step.
*Please note, Dad, that your's is the best Apple Cake (without almonds).
2 comments:
I like the image of going up into darkness and down into the light. It's almost like your upside-down reflection picture, albeit in a completely different way. Who could resist those steps?
No-one! Or the cake!
Post a Comment