Eddi of Manhood End
In 1913 the Poet Rudyard Kipling visited St Wilfred’s Chapel in Church Norton, and wrote his poem “ Eddi of Manhood End “ prefacing the story of St Wilfred in his book “Rewards and Fairies “ The poem is now part of the legacy and heritage of the Manhood Peninsula, and tells the story of Eddi trying to preach the Christmas message, to people who did not want to hear, and at the same time teaching the early Anglo Saxons to fish and be self-sufficient.
In or around 1947, under the aegis of George Handyside, Vicar of St Peters, the vocal story ‘of Selsey and its surrounds was presented in the field behind St.Wilfred’s Chapel Church Norton. There are still people who remember this event, through their parent’s participation or even themselves as children. “ It made us all feel good about ourselves” “ (Tom Creedy : Local Selsey Historian/W.Sussex Records Office)
The poem was translated into a rhythmic choral presentation with local people taking on different roles within the performance, such as Eddi, The Saxons,The Marsh Donkey and the Ox and Ass. Other people took the role of local Sesley Inhabitants and fisherman.
Many thanks to Chris Butler, Arts Dream, for this piece.
Eddi of Manhood End (EDDI, priest of St. Wilfrid, Church Norton)
In his chapel at Manhood End,
Ordered a midnight service
For such as cared to attend.
But the Saxons were keeping Christmas,
And the night was stormy as well.
Nobody came to service,
Though Eddi rang the bell.
'Wicked weather for walking,'
Said Eddi of Manhood End.
'But I must go on with the service
For such as care to attend.
The altar-lamps were lighted, –
An old marsh-donkey came,
Bold as a guest invited,
And stared at the guttering flame.
The storm beat on at the windows,
The water splashed on the floor,
And a wet, yoke-weary bullock
Pushed in through the open door.
'How do I know what is greatest,
How do I know what is least?
That is My Father's business,'
Said Eddi, Wilfrid's priest.
'But – three are gathered together –
Listen to me and attend.
I bring good news, my brethren!'
Said Eddi of Manhood End.
And he told the Ox of a Manger
And a Stall in Bethlehem,
And he spoke to the Ass of a Rider,
That rode to Jerusalem.
They steamed and dripped in the chancel,
They listened and never stirred,
While, just as though they were Bishops,
Eddi preached them The Word,
Till the gale blew off on the marshes
And the windows showed the day,
And the Ox and the Ass together
Wheeled and clattered away.
And when the Saxons mocked him,
Said Eddi of Manhood End,
'I dare not shut His chapel
On such as care to attend.'