The Whytte Boor

The story of Richard III is still creating discussion today. Was he a good king? An evil tyrant? A usurper and murderer? An honest, loyal and upright man? Since the discovery of his bones in Leicester the argument has become even more relevant.

This narrative poem explores Richard’s life from his coronation in July 1483 to his death at Bosworth in August 1485; a period of two years filled with tumultuous events and emotions. It includes fragments and spelling patterns from texts of the period in order to more closely represent the real voices of the historical characters. It is firmly based on historical records whilst exploring the emotions and feelings of the protagonists.

The Very Reverend Karen Rooms, Dean of Leicester Cathedral, where Richard is finally laid to rest, says, “This highly evocative sequence creates vivid worlds of imagination and emotion immersing us in the person and world of Richard III. Georgie invites reflection on the human, humane being whose character is nuanced - conflicted, loving, spiritual, brutal, dispassionate – describing vivid beauty and violence. This sequence is a joy of language, a fascination of character, and invocation of the medieval world which entices repeated engagement. It is beautiful and visceral and I love it.”

The work is endorsed by the CHS, “A thoroughly researched insight into Richard III uniquely couched in verse and the vernacular of the time. Highly recommended to anyone interested in this much maligned king.”.

A5 (softcover) 52 pages

Author: Georgiana Lorimer

ISBN 9781846744402