Foreword to Tom Twisleton 100 Years On


The warmth and humour of Craven Dialect poet Tom Twisleton (1845-1917) provide a window into the best features and aspirations of Yorkshire.
‘Lang Tom fra' Winskill Rock’ was literally a giant among men who compensated in humility for his physical aloofness. ‘When a chap can't beear from others lips his faults to hear, it shows his want of sense’ he writes and his poems poke at self-importance.
Tom Twisleton 100 is a welcome celebration of straight speaking in which Settle Stories has partnered the Twisleton family and the Museum of North Craven Life in working with young people to promote the Craven dialect and engage with social issues.
Tom’s poems shine with refreshing integrity. They ‘speak truth unto power’ shake shackles of addiction and challenge hypocrisy in the name of Truth that sets free. 
On behalf of the Twisleton family I am honoured to commend this Centenary publication which points beyond itself to web resources including that ‘must read’ for Yorkshire folk: ‘Poems in the Craven Dialect’.
John Twisleton   
Haywards Heath, West Sussex       June 2017
Canon Twisleton is Tom's first cousin twice removed.

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