A Literary Pilgrimage to Eglwysfach

Sian Thomas finds inspiration in the words of RS Thomas

As a lifelong admirer of R.S. Thomas, the poet who spoke so eloquently of the Welsh landscape and the human condition, I was thrilled to be able to attend a recent festival in his honour. Its location in the village of Eglwysfach was particularly significant, as it allowed attendees to experience the landscapes that had inspired Thomas's poetry first hand. It was the perfect setting to celebrate the life and work of this remarkable writer.

The 2024 R.S. Thomas festival in Eglwysfach offered a diverse programme of events from a guided walk in his footsteps to insightful talks and a poetry workshop. It was inspiring to witness a diverse range of poetic voices gathered together, united by their appreciation of R.S. Thomas.

Throughout the festival I was struck by the passion and enthusiasm of the attendees. It was clear that Thomas' poetry continues to inspire and resonate with people from all walks of life.

A delightful aspect of the festival was the welcoming atmosphere and the warm hospitality of the local community. No festival would be complete without a generous helping of refreshments and Yr Ystafell Haearn [pictured], a charming and historic building, served as a venue for a delightful tea and archive films.

One of the festival's highlights was the Bishop's heartfelt address on Gofal a Gwrthdaro (Care and Conflict). His talk, infused with personal insights gained from reading Thomas's poetry offered a poignant commentary on our own times. His words served as a powerful reminder of the enduring relevance of Thomas' message, urging us to confront the challenges of our world with compassion, understanding and a renewed sense of spiritual purpose.

Jason Walford-Davies's presentation was a special moment. His sharing of unpublished R.S. Thomas poems felt like a rare glimpse into the poet's mind. It was a privilege to hear these new verses, which offered fresh insights into the poet's work. Davies’ passion for Thomas’s work was evident, and his presentation enriched our understanding of the poet’s legacy.

As I reflect on the festival, I am left with a renewed appreciation for R.S. Thomas's work. His poetry is a timeless exploration of the human condition and his connection with the Welsh landscape is both profound and inspiring. The festival in Eglwysfach was a fitting tribute to his legacy and I hope it will continue to be a source of inspiration for generations to come.