Heart of Oak

Heart of Oak Prints from the series, Heart of Oak, are currently being shown in the Poitou-Charente region of France. The prints reference oak trees and oak tree disease. The series title is also, of course, the title of the official Royal Navy marching song; Come, cheer up, my lads, 'tis to glory we steer, To add something more to this wonderful year; To honour we call you, as freemen not slaves, For who are so free as the sons of the waves? This is the first verse from “Heart of Oak”, with words written by the 18th-century English actor David Garrick. It represents part of the British national story, the "wonderful year" mentioned is 1759; known as the “Annus mirabilis” during which British forces were victorious in several major battles. In today’s political climate, it may perhaps be better read as a satirical poem. And the wind it sighed Through the hearts of oak (Richard Hawley 2015)