In a Time of Distance: And Other Poems

by Alexander McCall Smith, Iain McIntosh (Illustrator)

What really counts in this life? For the writer, Alexander McCall Smith, it is friendship and love - themes that crop up time and again in his novels. And it is these themes that he explores in this collection of poems.

In this book, divided into nine sections, the author takes you on a journey across the globe from Africa to Greece, London to Mumbai, and back home to Edinburgh. In a Time of Distance is a captivating celebration of place and people, but also of animals and books. Looking at the world through the lens of this writer it is a better, more humane place. Throughout these poems there are moments of swoop and soar, descriptions that will make you laugh and realign your view. In this collection, Alexander McCall Smith reminds us to look at the world differently, to stop once in while and look up at the sky.

Genres: Poetry, Nonfiction, Scotland

112 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 15, 2020

About the author

Alexander McCall Smith is the author of the international phenomenon The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, the Isabel Dalhousie Series, the Portuguese Irregular Verbs series, and the 44 Scotland Street series. He is professor emeritus of medical law at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland and has served on many national and international bodies concerned with bioethics. He was born in what is now known as Zimbabwe and he was a law professor at the University of Botswana. He lives in Scotland. Visit him online at www.alexandermccallsmith.com, on Facebook, and on Twitter.

Reviews

[Moonkiszt · Rating 4 out of 5]

A calming, comforting read this day of chaos.

Breathing in and out, and am still here at its end, sharing my heart with you.

If chaos hunts you down. . .consider this. . .temples in fields of mustard. . .(the plant, silly, not the condiment).

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

A timely collection of new poems from one of my favorite authors. Great on audio read by the author himself. This collection covers a range of countries and topics and was quite enjoyable. Poetry fans or die-hard Alexander McCall Smith fans won't want to miss it.

[Yules · Rating 3 out of 5]

This rating is unfair. The collection is good, but, falling into my lap directly after Rainer Maria Rilke's "Elegies" (which I'm convinced is one of the best things ever written), it was sadly destined to disappoint by contrast.

Some things Smith writes, I believe.
“Isolation,” you say, “is a condition
That reminds us of its own name,
And the roots of that name—isola, an island;
To be isolated is to be apart from those
Who are otherwise close to you,
But who, when they look towards you,
See only water, as you see water
When you look towards them"

Other things I don't believe. "Cities are about friendship."

Not what I was looking for, but I don't regret the read.

[Jonathan Lissner · Rating 2 out of 5]

This collection has some good poems, but the poet’s stream of consciousness writing style grows tiring very quickly. A lot of the poems are repetitive and forgettable. Also, this may be a petty nitpick, but before most poems there is a note from the poet telling you what the poem is about, which irritated me because the poems were so straightforward and unambiguous that these were completely unnecessary. I can see why others might enjoy this, but it was a miss for me.

[Justin Wiggins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do yourself a favor by purchasing a copy of this incredible book of poetry asap. The poems in this book about the seasons, culture, travel, loss, love, joy, books, the paradox of being human, and the power of art, makes for a very good read. I really loved the one's about Scotland, and my favorite was A Maker of Beautiful Books.

[teainthelibrary · Rating 3 out of 5]

In a Time of Distance is wistful, calm collection with writing that is embedded with references to nature, the environment, love and literature. Now, I have known and adored Smith as a fiction writer and his poetry definitely stands on par. There is a lot of humour and wit and love, accompanied by heartbreak and the challenging reality of climate change.
The sonnets "Sixty Talks to Eighteen", "Eighteen Replies To Sixty" and, "Forty Intervenes" are staged as hilarious conversation between age groups and very light-heartedly confronts the often warring ideologies of different generations.
The title poem is my favourite from this collection, discussing the impacts of the pandemic without making a direct reference. It really is about human failure and could be connected to a variety of issues caused and ignored by society, such as climate disaster or pollution or poverty. I really recommend giving this a read. It is very accessible poetry on relatable and easily identifiable topics.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Alexander McCall Smith's poetry is yet another way of getting to know this beloved, prolific author and his views on the world. Expressing both serious and humorous viewpoints, he provides insight on what he finds important as well as what he considers frivolous. My favorite poem was the one imagining what a poetic airline pilot would say to his passengers. It had me laughing out loud. I also appreciate how he views animals. As always, he manages to throw in some good advice for his readers. Smith's poetry is pretty straightforward providing food for thought but not requiring the in-depth analysis that some poets require.

[Duckpondwithoutducks · Rating 4 out of 5]

In A Time Of Distance is a short book of poems by Alexander McCall Smith. If you are a fan of his books you will enjoy these poems. If you are a fan of the kind of poems that often end his Scotland St books, then you will really enjoy this book of poems. The poems are grouped thematically - about journeys, about the seasons, about animals, about love, about books and about specific places. The poems are introspectively philosophical. Most are relatively short. Reading them feels soothing and calming. It is perfect to read while drinking a coffee and relaxing.

[Sadie-Jane Huff · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 37 of 200 - 2023
Book 148 of 200 ~ 2023

I took my time to savour this book of poems.

For me, I dislike having to inhale poetry. I prefer digesting them in parts then decide whether I enjoyed them or not.

I really enjoyed the poems on books and reading as well the ones on Scotland.

There was such depth and soul in those poems it makes me wonder if other countries in the world are able to inspire such beautiful, meaningful words.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed McCall Smith's poems. I thought most of them would focus on the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing, but the majority of the poems were likely written before that time. Many poems included featured Scottish themes. Poems are grouped by theme with an "unrelated" section at the end. I'm glad I picked this up at the library! I wouldn't mind owning a copy.

[Ronald Schoedel III · Rating 5 out of 5]

You can never go wrong with Alexander McCall Smith’s poetry. So many thoughtful and thought-provoking insights so well stated.

[Suzanne Fournier · Rating 5 out of 5]

A variety of poems on many subjects.

I once got the pleasure of asking McCall Smith during a virtual event whether there were any topics he wasn't interested in. He laughed. These delightful poems show this interest in all things.

[Betty-Lou · Rating 5 out of 5]

Observations of life. Relatable.

[Scott Coulter]

For the 2023 #vtReadingChallenge, this was #10, for the category "A Book of Poetry".
I am neither a great fan of, nor a frequent reader of poetry, but then part of the point of a reading challenge is, of course, to read things I normally wouldn't. So, I had nothing particular in mind at the library a few days ago when I browsed my way to the Dewey Decimal 821's (English Poetry), where I was then quite happy to discover a recently-published volume of poems by one of my wife's favorite authors. I have read (on audiobook, in my commuter days), his No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency, and several of the books that followed, and enjoyed them very much, and my wife has read pretty much everything else he ever wrote also, so figured I would give his poetry a try.
I found several things to enjoy in this slim volume. The set of poems "The Scottish Four Seasons" were lovely, as were the quartet "The Goodness of Books". Probably the most deeply thoughtful selection was "From a Mumbai Hotel", a meditation on how privilege in this life doesn't usually go to the most deserving. I appreciated the fact that most of the poems had some sort of explanatory note or background from the author. I was a bit saddened to notice how many of the poem intros, or poems themselves, took pains to highlight what a thoroughly modern atheist the author is, even when writing poems about prayer, angels, or Hindu temples (I can, of course, agree with the futility of praying to the Hindu gods and the fact that some people go overboard on "angelology", but I'm saddened that the author seems to be left believing in absolutely nothing).

[Kristi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have often thought that Alexander McCall Smith's book are written in a gentle language that feels like poetry. I liked many of the poems and could visualize the scenes depicted. I loved the poem: On the Bedside Table. Pray that in our later years - On our bedside table there will be - More books than jars of pills. ( As a 74-year-old, I find my table is in a bit of a race for dominance ) That at the end of the day - Scout and Jem will still - Be read to by Atticus Finch. Pray for all of that - And for that device, the book - Our beloved companion and our friend. There is more to the poem, but this captures the value that books have in my life. During the pandemic reading, Abby Tabby, and streaming films have helped preserve a new quality of life for me. I have always been a reader, having taught myself to do so at age four. I read 431 books last year - many of them by Mr. McCall Smith. I traveled great distances while isolating at home. Bless the gift of books!! Kristi & Abby Tabby

[Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

The organization and design of the book was beautiful and I really appreciated the introduction that the author included for most of his poems. I personally love to know the background and learn the context in which the writer felt inspired to write each one. Due to these introductions also, the book felt much more personal to the author and gave more insight into his perspective. Most of the poems were reflections it seems on life and the world which we currently occupy. When reading through the poems, it felt kind of like reading the end-of-the-novel author notes and acknowledgments (which I happen to enjoy reading) while also sitting on the front porch hearing stories from a great uncle who is insightful and well-spoken. A different experience from other collections of poetry I've read but I think probably reminiscent of the author who is already a popular novelist.

[Angel (Bookn.All.Night) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great mix of poems and was perfect for my morning coffee. I especially love the author's note before each poem that gives some insight to it.

The section I loved the most (shocker 😂) was the "Of Books & Reading" section. "What the Book Is" is the perfect poem for booknerds. 💗

Definitely recommend this one for those who love poetry or want to dip their toes into the genre. I sincerely appreciate Pantheon for providing me with a review copy. All opinions expressed herein are mine and mine alone.

[Susanne (Pages of Crime) · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is always nice to visit Alexander McCall Smith's writing. There is something so comforting and calming about it that leaves me with a cosy feeling.
This collection of poems is grouped into various broader topics and often have explanatory comments from the author that give a bit of extra context. It was nice to also have a poem or two included from the Scotland Street series character Angus Lordie.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book continued my exploration into poetry for the month of April and it certainly did not disappoint. I have never been to Scotland, but have always wanted to, and this collection of poems did nothing but add to that desire to travel and experience the world. I’d highly recommend this collection of poems, there’s something that will connect with everyone.

[Marysia · Rating 2 out of 5]

Overall, I found this book redundant and wordy, making it a struggle to read. Some of his poems were good and contained interesting ideas, however, there weren't enough of them for me to enjoy the book. Simply put, it wasn't for me, but it could and probably would be for someone else.

[Carroll · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Alexander Mc Call Smith's writing and this collection of poems did not disappoint. I liked the fact that he "introduced" each poem and told us what inspired him to write it. I purchased this book in Bemidji MN with the purpose of ...an independent book store.

[Tom Romig · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reflective, wise, and often charming, Smith's poems celebrate the joys of life while at the same time acknowledging the sorrow wrought by loss and change.

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

McCall Smith is always entertaining and thought-provoking.

[Paula Dembeck · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read much of McCall Smith’s work, finding it a quiet respite from some more challenging reading about war, dysfunctional families and evil doers, but this is the first time I have encountered a book of his poetry. Begun during the pandemic when we were isolated and forced to be away from our regular activities and social contacts, this volume shows McCall Smith reflecting on his beloved Scotland and the things he values most in life: kindness, courtesy and friendships.

These pieces reflect his signature style, using the same conversational tone of his fiction and sharing with readers his reflections on a number of topics, some serious, some less so. He takes readers on his many travels pointing out both humorous signs he has come across and observations he has made about the culture, the people and the animals he sees. Some are common sights and some are scenes he has imagined and of course there is a section on reading and books. His comments make you think and sometimes chuckle silently to yourself.

Most pieces are preceded by a short paragraph, placing the poem in some sort of context and underlying each, is a lesson to be learned, wisdom to be shared and thoughtful insights about the world around us.

There are poems about signs that cite the history of conquests, as old and modern empires struggled against one another; one about those who believe in angels, messengers carrying the words of others, making announcements and dispensing warnings. McCall notes how some find these beings comforting, reassured with the knowledge they are not alone, and although they never find those beings they seek, they want that elusive quarry to exist. He speaks to the number of gods in India, where every hamlet has a humble shrine. Gods inhabit rivers, wash away sins, make limbs sound and the unhappy less lonely. Miracles are talked about that no one has witnessed, always happening to someone else.

On his travels he has come across temples where he least expects them, one in the middle of a mustard field. Just like life it is a small surprise when you least expect it. On the island of Martinique, he laughs at a sign in a garden warning: “Do Not Lean Again”, pointing out we know what it means, which is different from what it says. His observation then segues into a powerful message about how we all need to lean on others at some point, but there are limits and ultimately everyone needs to learn how to stand on their own two feet.

There is a section describing Scotland through the four seasons, a country of temperate to inhospitable weather, reminding everyone that warmth is not something not naturally experienced there.

There is a section on sonnets which he believes still have their place despite being a formal version of verse, still holding the power to comment on contemporary life while maintaining a focus on their usual subjects: love, introspection, constancy and age. There is one about humility, a virtue rare is our age of self-celebration, as McCall Smith cautions us to remember our achievements are not ours alone; we achieve on the shoulders of others.

The section on animals including one that compares humans to their primate cousins. We both walk on two legs, use our hands, are sensitive to gesture, live in groups governed by customs, have leaders and arguments, play games with our offspring and are vulnerable in sleep. He describes Whales as having dignity, Elephants like moving rocks, who mourn their dead and ask why we continually shrink their habitat, decimating their numbers. Kangaroos take their young into the warm comfort of a maternal pouch; tortoises are heavy with years and laden with caution; the polar bear wonders why his world continues to grow smaller; the crocodile is described a proud survivor of an ancient line who does not expect to be loved. McCall Smith warns us, we need to remember we share a common home of space, air and water with animals and that our world is their world.

The section on books reminds us how reading allowed the secrets of the powerful to be shared so the least of men could make decisions about themselves and the world they live in. They bring people together in civil conversation, help the puzzled and confused, put an end to ignorance and bring freedom to the most remote corners of the world. He hopes that on our bedside tables he will find more books than jars of pills.

There are three poems dedicated to Canada a country he has visited often and admires. For McCall Smith that large country represents courtesy, kindness, restraint and modesty, small words for such a large area. On a visit to the Canadian Museum of Human Rights in Winnipeg, he notes its large size and how the wrongs we have done one another requires such space. He asks us to think about how so much in life is unavoidable, and to remember that the things shown in this space are clearly not among them.

Like his fiction, this work is very readable, easily accessible to those who may find poetry a format too difficult and so avoid it. For those who want a quiet read, this one, of a wise man offering his gentle philosophy about life, may be just the thing.

[Nancie Lafferty · Rating 4 out of 5]

More about listening to Alexander McCall Smith’s lovely narration and the thinking/writing processes leading up to the poems than the poetry itself.

[Alex Curtis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book more than most. But I went into it without any preconceived notions or expectations which helped.

This book is a lifetime collection of poems from Alexander McCall Smith. He has since categorized them into chapters, such as “Love and Loss”, “Journeys”, and “Animals”. But I get the sense they were written over a lifetime. They are very much a stream of consciousness by the author, and later categorized in order to collect in the form of a book. This can be bad to some, but I enjoyed the candid nature of the poems. It felt less polished, which I perceived as being more raw and from the heart, as opposed to a polished piece of art that other collections have.

I really enjoyed the poems about the animals. I also loved the ones about childhood and aging. There was great emotion and thought provoking philosophy that emanates from those ones. A good chunk of poems are related to the authors personal travel. I related far less to those as I think they were written based on very personal experiences that occurred during the trips. But there was still some good beauty to be found in the writings.

Overall. It was a good collection. It won’t find its way on any “best of” lists but it was a worthy read.

[Lesli · Rating 4 out of 5]

The theme of this short book of poetry is of distance - times when we must distance from each other, as well as traveling to distant lands, using different modes of travel, observing traditions and religions of other cultures, and even discovering interesting and transcendent signs.

I have not read a lot of poetry but I'm a huge fan of Alexander McCall Smith's novels, and I thought this was a great gentle introduction to the genre for non-poetry readers. The poems have a philosophical, reflective feel that is similar to his stories but are even more calming, kind of like sitting down for a rest, breathing deeply and feeling the space between the words.

The way the book ends really warmed my heart - if you are a fan of McCall Smith's 44 Scotland Street series, you will recognize some of Angus Lordie's poems from the final chapters of these books.

[Erin Janda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I selected this book of poetry as a way to finish up my 2022 reading challenge, and I believe that I discovered a gem. I enjoyed this book immensely. I also liked that the author himself narrated the book. I found his sense of humor to be rather amusing, and I found myself smiling or laughing aloud at certain lines.

It is difficult to pick a favorite poem from this collection, as there are so many that I really enjoyed. The two that stand out most in my mind are vastly different. The first is titled “Ne Pas: A Sign on a Wall in Fort-de-France Martinique” which made me chuckle heartily! The second is the final poem of the book titled “Saving an Oak Tree” which made me feel such warmth and connection.

I highly recommend giving this book of poetry a read, and I think the audiobook is definitely the best way to hear the poetry.

[Robin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Alexander McCall Smith often ends his "Scotland Street" books with a poem by the painter Angus Lordie, so I was not surprised to find his 2020 book of poems at the library. The topics include journeys, a Scottish four seasons, sonnets, animals, love, books, and places. As with most poetry books, I skim the topics and often the first several lines, rather than faithfully reading each poem. My favorites of the ones I did read are the one that gives the book its title--"In a time of distance," written during pandemic-- and the fourth part, "On the bedside table" from "The Goodness of Books." There is a list at the beginning of poems dedicated to named people and for some of the poems AMS gives a context.

[Stefan Grieve · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some mostly pleasant poems that gave me real food for thought and caused some reflection. There are some great lines and a good variety of subjects for poems. It's a beautiful little book, the sections divided by simple but bold illustrations.

There is a lot of preamble to some of them, mainly in the first half, that can be unnecessary.
The subject matter for the majority of them may be a little too gentle, but that as I have found is mostly the author's style. The last section is titled 'Unrelated poems' which seems like an afterthought and not too creative, as honest as that title may be.

Reading this book at home and on a bus, I found it was an experience not wasted.