Sailing to Caldey on an evening boat in winter is a special experience. For Brother David Hodges, a monk of Caldey Abbey, it also takes on a mystical flavour, as the sea itself transcends all other emotions.

In his second collection of poems, On the Night Tide, Brother David gives us a powerful and often delightful insight into the thoughts and feelings of a monk as he looks at nature, human feelings, the modern world and traditional religious thought.

For a monk, all activity is prayer, and this sense of deeper a meaning in everyday life is a constant theme in the book. But you don't have to be religious to enjoy David Hodges' poems.

Weighty subjects are handled with a light touch and an engaging feel for the colour and rhythms of English. As well as natural and religious themes, Brother David also casts his poetic eye on modern preoccupations such as the Internet and designer labels.

Anyone interested in good poetry, nature, monasticism, or a thoughtful slant on life in general will find On the Night Tide both moving and enjoyable.

Before becoming a monk David Hodges practised as a solicitor in Baskingstoke, having read Law and Economics at Trinity College, Cambridge. His first book of poetry, Songs from Solitude achieved wide critical acclaim.

On the Night Tide is available from Caldey Abbey Shop, Quay Hill, Tenby, priced £6.95. It is also on sale at the Tenby Bookshop, Tudor Square, Tenby, and at the Tenby Museum.

The book can be purchased by mail order from Caldey Abbey, Caldey Island, Pembs. SA70 7UY, priced £7.65, including postage.