Published by Vicky Anne Vaughan, Made by Me by the Sea
As the 80th anniversary of VE Day passes, I’ve found myself drawn to the quiet stories held by our architecture, not the grand headlines or loud parades, but the silent walls, stairwells, and rooftops that bore witness to both devastation and hope.
That inspired me to create If Buildings Could Speak: VE Day Through the Eyes of a Building. An illustrated and animated poem that gives voice to a structure that stood through the Blitz. It sheltered families, absorbed trauma, and still stands today, quietly carrying those memories.
It’s more than a tribute to the past. It’s a reminder that buildings aren’t just brick and steel. They’re timekeepers, soul-holders, and within them, there are countless unspoken stories.
This poem is inspired by my book If Buildings Could Speak, available at Montague Gallery in Worthing. I created it using Adobe Premiere Pro, blending illustration, animation and poetry to bring history closer to the present.
The piece also honours those often forgotten in wartime tributes, particularly the women who stepped in with strength, skill and quiet determination when men went to war. It’s a thank you to those behind the labels, the builders, makers, and quiet grafters who helped hold the home front together.
I’ve always believed poetry can say what facts often can’t. It softens the edges, adds warmth to history, and reminds us why these places matter—not just architecturally, but emotionally.
You can view the whole video poem on YouTube, and the accompanying Avro Lancaster design is available by using this link. 5% of profits are donated to the Royal British Legion.
I’d love to know—what buildings hold a story for you?
#VEDay #IfBuildingsCouldSpeak #BritishHistory #WomenInWar #IllustratedPoem #HeritageMatters #MadeByMeByTheSea