The Weight Of Smoke

Sir Walter Raleigh was executed 400 hundred years ago. Visionary explorer, passionate lover, flawed politician, and poet.

Perhaps he represented England at the dawn of the 17th century — history may be equipped for such a judgement. But how did he think of himself? And does his position in history offer any insight on Britain today, as it negotiates a place in the world amid a cloak-and-dagger rebranding bid.

What does the sum of us weigh after Empire has burnt away? And what will we see once the smoke has cleared?

Peter Spafford is a poet, playwright, musician and one-third of Schwa. Dave Bowie Jr has played in many different musical ensembles, including Martha and the Vandellas, William Bell, and The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain.