The Dumfriesshire Garden turf labyrinth was first laid out in summer 2020. To commemorate the suffering of those caught up in the Beirut fire that August, I planted a tiny Cedar of Lebanon at its centre. Since then, the simple three circle labyrinth has brought much reward in good times, and consolation in darker moments.
As a living thing, it changes over time and across the seasons. The screen of hornbeams that surrounds it is thickening, albeit mysteriously patchy in a couple of places. The daffodils in the ‘wall’ (the area between the paths) were not so strong in 2024, but still provided a most welcome dash of colour, around late January. This year they were followed by a single cammasia, blown in at some stage from across the arboretum. Suitably encouraged, I scattered more cammasia seed in the wall at the end of the season.
The labyrinth alters in aspect with the light, the weather conditions, and the seasons. Snow and frost only serve to enhance its appeal. Walking the labyrinth can be carried out in daylight and darkness. The depths of winter or high summer are equally suitable. It’s a fitting place to walk, and to stand in its centre, at solstices or days of national and international commemoration. Sceptical at first about the attraction of walking a labyrinth, I have become intrigued by my relationship to it. Some days (not many) I walk past it, not wishing to engage. Most days and nights I leave the dog to his perambulations. Just a few minutes in the labyrinth then ensue, during which, and most of the time, something has fallen into place among the thoughts in my mind.
The Cedar of Lebanon had a growth spurt in 2024. It has emerged from its supporting framework and is ready to reach up and spread out. The tree stands as a lasting reminder of the suffering of others.
The full list of pieces that make up my A-Z in the Dumfriesshire Garden in 2024 can be found here: https://davidgrahamclark.net/a-z-of-the-dumfriesshire-garden-in-2024/
Quotidian 