Staffordshire Pie

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Begin with a kingdom called Mercia.

Knead in a warrior princess -

twist the gold braid of her gown

into three loops to form a knot

that binds you to your borders.

Stretch moorlands across limestone valleys

called Dove, Churnet and Trent, 

form pockets of sandstone through the centre

to house hermits and hold forest roots.

To prepare your filling 

chop lush green land 

into pastures, orchards and vineyards -  

add a pinch of precious wildlife.

Stir in just enough market towns and spired cities

to ensure you can still taste their flavours,

spread the efforts of industrialists, 

miners, brewers and bakers

across steam-filled skies

drizzle lakes, rivers and canals

in thin blue lines linking

north to south, east to west,

then bake sun-kissed ideas from 

writers, musicians and artists

until there are burnt umber horizons.

Invite strangers to your table to share your feast,

promise they will find someone they know, 

and that you will be serving your favourite Staffordshire Pie.