[The Squatter of Amon Rûdh]

Originally Posted by piosenniel

I've always wondered where the Peculier, in Old Peculier comes from. Does anyone know?

Here's the full story about that peculiar name straight from the horse's mouth.

Yes, Slough is quite biting, but that's essential to its message. However, as Saucepan has been very forthcoming above, I think we can discount any controversial effect here. John Betjeman is a poet who sometimes divides critical opinion, but there is nearly always a philosophical point behind his suburban themes. The centenary of his birth was celebrated recently, so he's been back in the limelight in Britain of late, which can only be a good thing. A defence of his poetry was published by the current Poet Laureate, Andrew Motion, in last month's Radio Times.