Tony Harrison: Excursion

Allusion to Classical figure Venus, Caracalla, Cyclops, tomb of a mounted signifer, Flavinus

Allusion to Classical place Hadrian’s Wall, a Mithraeum and aqueduct, Eboracum, Ultima Thule

Relationship to Classical text DIS MANIBVS on the tomb of a Roman standard bearer.

Comment Classical imagery and notions of empire colour the poet’s view of the landscape.