Toms Poems.
After each of the poems I put on this blog I will do a short write up just to explain it, if it is not obvious. The one below does speak for its self, I think?
1.
The Poem.
I've always wanted to write, for people to read,
Not much to some, but it seemed to be my need.
So, what would I put, did I have something to say?
I didn't want the picture to be all too grey.
I could talk of my life, and things I have done,
That could be boring, and not please some.
Or be a story teller, and speak of my dreams,
But when on paper, it's not always as it seems.
What about the wrongs in the world, and to put them right,
It's a good idea, then again maybe not so bright.
What about poems, and to make words rhyme.
That's it, and to give no care for the time.
Some verses that I've have read in the past,
I find them hard to understand, right to the last.
I've tried to make these poems as simple as I can,
Maybe that's because, they come from a common man.
I hope you enjoy the words, as the pages you turn,
I had fun writing them, and also, I did learn.
June 1988.
2.
The
Albatross.
It was in Southern seas that I first saw him glide,
He followed our ship, never trying to hide.
So graceful he looked as he flew to and fro,
Always knowing which way, he would go.
He never seemed tired or in need of a rest,
Just as well, it was far from his nest.
Hardly a flap came from those long slender wings,
He had great ease of doing things.
As the sun went down on his back at night,
What a picture it made what a beautiful sight.
His wings were black his plumage white,
So those colours can live together and
be all right.
Soaring so high he would fly for the
sky,
Then dive to the sea as straight as a
die.
He never stopped not even to eat,
But some of those fish would be his
treat.
Two thousand miles we could be from land,
But that flying wonder never needed a
hand.
How could God make such a creature as this?
Then give man a gun, just to kill for his bliss.
In those Southern seas he was always there,
I would like to think, he had not a care.
January 1985.
This was inspired from when I used to travel to the Falklands, for two weeks by ship from Cape Town, South Africa, it was always there. It was almost hypnotic, I spent hours just sat watching it.
3.
Sir Captain Tom.
We had never heard of him before the virus came,
But a hero he was already along with many others, who never came home.
He walked for the nurses, doctors and all those who had helped us so much.
Each day the country watched him go around
and around.
He had such spirit and inspired so many when
times looked so dark.
He sang a song, which got to the top.
He said “we would never walk alone,” and that we did not.
The whole world knew his name, and money
came from everywhere.
He had a much-deserved sword put on his
shoulders.
A very humble man who liked to laugh, and we laughed with him.
We didn’t know him for long, but he touched us all.
Rest in peace, Sir Captain Tom.
February 2021.
I wrote this poem when Sir Tom Moore died in February 2021. I think the words above say it all of what happened, but what an inspiration this great man was to so many.
4.
Does any of this make any sense?
As I’ve walked though life things never
cease to amaze me,
Each waking moment could bring a new
surprise.
We can plan things we are going to do,
then wake up one morning and find it has all changed.
New people come into our lives and this
could be for good or bad.
Who knows what will come at us
next?
Never did those people think they would
go up those twin towers for the last time that September morn.
But it’s up to us to make the most of
life, as we never know when it will end.
Try to bring a little happiness to our
fellow humans, to make people smile for a while.
We would have no problem spending
billions on bombing an “unfriendly country.”
But we can’t feed half the world.
We put man on the moon a lifetime ago,
yet in some places a family have to walk miles for a bucket of water.
We are meant to be intelligent and
educated, yet we use that learning to kill each other.
When will we all understand that when we
are cut, we all bleed red blood?
No mater what colour, race or creed we
are, we should be given the chance to live in peace.
Life is for living and to enjoy, not to
hurt others.
As the song goes “spread a little
happiness as you go by,” try it today, you may feel good.
October 2002.
I wrote this about a year or so after 9/11, it is now January 2022 and things don’t seem to be much better in the world, in fact at times I think things are worst. Will we ever be able to live together in peace? We can all live in hope.
5.
The Abduction.
My first day at school was one I’ll never forget,
For not many four-year olds had to be
dragged, I’ll bet?
I wasn’t hurting anyone by playing at
home all day,
I had made believe friends with whom I
would play.
Then the bombshell dropped when my Mum
said to me,
“It’s school tomorrow,” what a shock, no
longer would I be free.
I protested a lot, and said she was
interfering with my human rights,
Not really, I just cried a lot and that
was out of fright.
I sobbed in bed that night, thinking my
world had come to an end,
And what was this rubbish about the best
time of my life and meeting new friends?
I ask you, what did my Mother know of
such things as this?
I would use plan ‘A,’ as I was about to
resist.
I would refuse to get dressed that very
next morn,
Better still, hide my cloths before the
dawn.
But that fell though as the shelf I
could not reach,
Was I really to be taken away, for them
to teach?
A uniform was put on me, with much a-to-do.
Maybe I was going to prison and not to
school?
My Mum had her own plan, as I lay stiff
on the floor,
She got her heavy, Mrs Field from next
door.
They picked me up, as by arms and legs I
was caught,
But you’ll be pleased to know, every
inch of the way I fought.
Oh, the panic that went though me as the
big gates got near,
I would never see my home again, that
was now the fear.
Into the classroom I kicked and screamed
as I was not being coy,
And how dare that teacher to tell me, “you are being a silly little boy.”
When was the last time two roughens came
and took her away?
What did she know of my plight, to her I
would like to say?
And as if enough disasters had not
befallen me that day,
On top of all that, my Mother left me
and went away.
And would you believe that the talk was
of dolls, as next to a girl I was sat,
She didn’t want to hear of my abduction,
so I told her she was fat.
I did try to escape but found I could
not,
But by me, that first day will never be
forgot.
October 1984.
I think the poem above says it all. I may have used a bit of “poetic licence,” but over all it is not far from the truth. My Dad died when I was 4 (1956) and we moved to west London, Bedfont, Middlesex from south London. I had two older sisters, and my Mum had to work, so that was it, I had to go to school. When looked back at that day I realised just how bad I had been, so this is me taking the 'micky' out of myself, I deserved it. But as I said, by me, that first day will never be forgot!
I think I may have felt like the person in the photo above.
6.
The Virus – Part 1.
We have been told a country, but none of us was expecting this!
Life was normal, well as normal as life could be.
Then all of a sudden it changed, possibly for ever.
Food hard to get, last seen mainly when bombs were dropping.
People queuing for everything and of course toilet rolls.
Governments have made mistakes,’ but this is the unknown.
Lockdown has been so hard for so many, “not another day of this!”
Mental health for many has been pushed to its limit, and beyond.
Lots of people have left us, many far too soon.
As for those who ask the questions, they say on our behalf!
My answer to that is, we heard more negatives than positives.
And asking the same question many times over.
People walked many miles, but didn’t get far, but raised much needed
money.
We came to know what Zoom was, as we chatted with loved ones.
Most of us did as we were told, but of course there are those who will
never do that.
Many jobs disappeared, some maybe never to be seen again.
We had the unsung heroes, which came in many forms.
They sat by beds, gave us food, kept the peace, and much more, but many
paid the ultimate price.
We have seen many bad things in our lifetimes, but nothing like this
invisible assailant.
7.
The Virus – Part 2.
How long will this go on for, when will it end?
Will it ever end?
A New Year has come, but not much to cheer.
Christmas was cancelled until another year.
Holidays are forgotten as we watch the snow
fall.
We would like to feel the sun again.
Here we are in ‘Lockdown Three.’
It is now sounding like a film trilogy.
They say there is light at the end of the
tunnel,
Let’s hope it not a train coming the other
way!
Vaccines have been made.
But now our neighbours across the sea are moaning who gets
it first.
Have they got the hump, as we are not in their
gang anymore?
Do you think life will ever be the same
again?
How many tiers will we have to go through,
Before we can have a beer, without a
substantial meal?
So many things had been taken for granted in
the past?
To hug, kiss or shake a friend’s hand.
Or just to sit and talk about the load
rubbish that we used to.
This will end, we don’t know when at the
moment, but end it will,
Let hope we can all meet when that time comes!
January 2021.
8.
The virus – Part 3.
I can’t believe another year on and I writing one of these again.
Christmas and New Year
have come and gone.
Not as bad as the one
before, but still not good.
If we wanted to meet,
we had to be negative not positive.
As a rule, the good
side of that is the other way around.
Many people did the
right thing, and got the needle.
Unfortunately, there
are many, who have the needle, about having the needle.
They think they know
best.
As for the people who
make the rules.
Let’s say it seems
there is one for us and many another’s for them.
It has been almost two
years.
At the start our main
man said, “it would be over by Christmas!”
But which one? That he
is yet to divulge.
In a short time, we
have seen many things we have not before.
We had the “pingdemic.”
This made many turn
the app off.
The last thing they
want is a ping, then no work to pay the bills.
We had some people who
must think they are the most important in the world.
As these rules do not
apply to them!
We have had many different
strains of this virus.
It comes from many
places around our globe, which one is next?
People want to fly
away.
But that may leave
them in a hotel they do not want, or afford!
Again, we have lost so
many, too soon!
I want to believe that
I will not be doing one of these next year.
But who knows, I may
see you then?
January 2022.
There is not a lot more I can say that I have not said above. I did say to someone once, "I am totally fed up with this now." And they said, "don't you think we all are?" They didn't need to take it personally.
I will say it again, lets hope I am not doing this, this time next year. As they say, fingers crossed.
9.
Love.
What is love? It can take many
forms.
Love as a Mother, Father or brother and
sister,
it can be of something we enjoy,
Going fishing, playing golf, driving our
car.
Or even wearing that old hat or coat
that we love.
It could be for that favourite place.
A place we love to be, to sit or walk,
to look around.
It maybe of a drink, a wine or a food we
love to taste.
We mostly think of love for another
person, again, many forms this may take.
To be in love with a person can be one
of the greatest things in our life.
To have that person on your mind all
day,
To be on another planet when you think
of them, talk to or see them.
You want to do things for them, be with
them, care for them,
To make them feel safe.
If that feeling is returned it can put
you on cloud nine.
But to feel this way and it not returned,
can make you feel so very low.
If you have told them expecting great
news back and it does not come,
A bigger fool you could never feel.
Is it an embarrassment, it seems like
one is wearing one’s heart on their sleeve?
In some cases, a person can fall in love
with another very fast.
For others it has to grow, and that can
take years.
The worst kind of love must be for another
who we cannot tell.
Never let them know how we feel.
Love should be a thing of joy, something
for us to behold.
But there again a person who has never
made a mistake,
Has never done anything.
Love can take many forms; I hope you
feel one, at some time or another.
May 2002.
I thought we should lighten the mood a little after the last three poems.
10.
I am Only a Volunteer!
“I am only a volunteer,”
That is what these people say.
Let’s have a look at what some of these people may do.
They could be on the end of a phone, when a person sees the end in
sight.
They could be by an ambulance when the goals go in on a Saturday
afternoon.
They could turn up at a person’s door when a victim needs support.
They could feed people when they have got no home.
They could be in a court to send bad people away.
They could be on a boat at a poor country and give aid too many people.
They could be out in the cold helping people get their jab.
They could shop for a person who cannot do it their self.
The list goes on and on.
This country, possibly the world?
Would be on its knees without the people who say,
“I am only a volunteer!”
December
2021.
Again, I think it the words say it all. As someone once said to me, “once a volunteer always a volunteer!"
11.
How Lucky I am?
Oh, I have that job to go to tomorrow, people say.
Well at least that person has a job, with money coming in.
Oh, it is so cold here in the UK this winter.
There are some places in the world where people can not go out that
time of year.
Oh, how the NHS is so poor, I had to wait so long.
There are many places where you have no money, you have no doctor.
Oh, I am fed up with this country, I will go in the street and protest.
A person can do that here, go to some counties and do that, and see
what happens.
Oh, I am fed up with that car of mine, but can’t afford another.
In some places people have to walk many miles to work, for very little.
Oh, I am so fed up with our politicians.
At least we were able to vote them in.
We all moan and groan about things, some more than others.
But we are very lucky to have been born here or counties like this.
December 2021.
I look at things around the world
and I am very happy with living in the UK. If I could change one thing about
this country, which I can’t, it would be the weather, warm all year around!
12.
A Glint in the Sky.
A giant beam of light did shine from the
sky,
The morning sun did peak though the
clouds so high.
How bright it did shine on the glens so
green,
Dew did sparkle like a great diamond
ring.
Then out of the clouds like a jet
fighter plane,
Towards the ground that golden eagle
came.
As if it would crash he dived so low,
Then made for the sky as he flew to and
fro.
How graceful he looked as he circled
around,
But that large hooked bill will grab
things from the ground.
And as for those piercing eyes, they are
really so keen,
There’s little he’ll miss below in the
green.
Large broad wings will take him on a
long soaring flight,
For he will be in search of pray until
the last light.
When the sun it shines, his golden
plumage will glint,
With one quick turn he will spark like
flint.
Don’t dare to challenge, as he is very
strong,
Yet when he glides he is like a sweet
love song.
With claws that resemble a sharp cutting
knife,
His foe is lucky to escape with their
life.
He has been a symbol of power for many a
year,
You can understand why, as he shows no
fear.
It’s only fitting that a creature as
majestic as this,
Should grace a land that has known such
bliss.
May
1988.
I wrote this after seeing a documentary on TV about the eagle and was so very impressed.
13.
From Start to Finish
Many a mile we had sailed from land,
With the task ahead, we hoped God was at
hand.
We had left our families on a tearful
day,
All because we wanted to earn some pay.
Long days at sea, no sign of life,
Made one think , of family and wife.
We were heading for a southern shore,
Where not long before, had seen battle
roar.
Men had come and men had died,
Now it was our turn, no time to hide.
Would we make it or would we fail?
That we would find out, as we took to the
trail.
The first day that I saw that wind-swept
land,
I thought to myself, this isn’t so grand.
Land before that had only seen cattle
and sheep,
Now they would have giant tracks running
past their feet.
But there was work to be done no time to
spare,
Let’s build roads, the foreman said with
a glare.
Virgin soil was turned by day,
Then we sat and drunk some of our pay.
We would laugh and cheer, we all looked
pleased,
But deep down inside we had other needs.
But those thoughts had to be put to one
side for now,
As there was an airfield to be built,
and they had said we knew how.
Some days were warm some very cold,
But that cutting wind was bound to make
you look old.
We built a new camp so we could all live
together,
But some of those men would bring you to
the end of your tether.
And as for some was it their first time
away from home,
Poor things looked like a dog that had
just lost its bone.
Then we had the suited men, who said
they would make us rich,
Well let’s just say they got up to some
dirty tricks.
Give us all you have got they would say,
We’ll do things for you, you won’t
forget this day.
But empty promises were soon forgot,
They were just happy to get their lot.
The summer was gone when the snows they
came,
And my word chilled feet can give much
pain.
Long cold days and freezing nights,
The end of this job seemed well out of
sight.
So, work we did, and time went fast,
We looked to the future and forgot the
past.
But the pressure was on, the job had to
be done,
So, there wasn’t time to have much fun.
Mental and physical pain was felt by
some,
While others looked on as if they were
dumb.
As time got nearer we worked day and
night,
Things had to be done for that in coming
flight.
When toil was done the plane it landed,
Let’s drink to success, the glass was
handed.
You’ve done a good job the boss said
with a grin,
But did he expect us to take all that
in?
We had done as we had been asked; it was
time to go,
So, bags were packed this was the end of
our show.
There were many memories none to be
forgotten,
Some were good, but others rotten.
The island had seen change lets even
hope gain,
But let’s be fair, it will never be the
same.
We got our pay it was time to be jolly,
But would any of this ever of happened,
but for one mans folly?
March 1985.
This was the poem I wrote while I was working in the Falkland Islands, from December 1983 until April 1985. It is also in my book, The Lads from the Pleasant 'B' Team.
14.
T I A B. (This is Africa Baby)
We meet at field base on a sunny day,
We had come to work, without any
pay.
We worked inside and out, as we had to train,
Just as well this time of year there
would be no rain.
We had long hot days and freezing
nights,
When the ventures would arrive seemed well
out of sight.
But arrive they did and many came.
We played icebreakers and many a game.
We were told the rules we had to obey,
This is what you must do, is what they
did say.
And as for sex drugs and rock and roll,
Dai did say, no man no!
With our new charges under our wing,
We set off to the projects, it was time
to sing.
For a trek in that hot sun you would
need no coat,
But be careful, you don’t end up like a
mountain goat.
We built an elephant dam and a brand-new
school,
And the kids they’re thought it was, “cool
man cool.”
Toilets, fire towers and poachers’ lodges
all went up,
There was no time to sit on your arse,
as we had to be tough.
Most of the ventures were really good
fun,
But there was the odd few that it
wouldn’t hurt to give a good kick up the bum.
Much work was done in a country that to
us its people had been so kind,
So, let’s hope that something worthwhile
has been left behind?
When I leave no more Soya will I
consume,
And when I sit on a real toilet, I will
hum a happy tune.
I won’t be sorry to go home when it all
ends,
But one thing I have got, is a lot of
new friends.
July 2002.
This poem was from the 3 months I spent in Namibia South West Africa with Raleigh International. The photo above is at the school where we built two new classrooms and a store.
15.
The Wilderness.
How long had I been walking in this
wilderness?
I don’t know, weeks months, years? It
had been a long time.
With hot gritty burning sands below my
bare feet, rocks that cut and the yellow ball in the sky that burned my back.
I had come across oasis and had the odd
rest.
I met other people, we chatted then went
our different ways.
I knew I had to keep going, to where I
was not sure, but to stop for too long would be to give up and that I could not
do.
Vultures were above me in the sky just
waiting for me to fall, so keep going I did.
For many miles I kept walking mainly
with my head hung low.
Then one day out of the blue I looked up
and saw you in front of me.
I ‘am not sure what made me think you
were the right person to walk with, was it your smile, the pretty face the
happy chat, I don’t know maybe all, but right I knew it was.
We stopped and talked, laughed and had
some fun, before I knew it we had started to walk together.
The walking was still not easy but now I
knew that if I tripped over a rock I had you to help me up.
We walked for many miles and as we
shared our fears and worries of being in the wilderness alone, then journey
became easier.
Was it the helping hand we gave each
other or was it the arm around the shoulder, or just knowing we were there for
each other.
Wrapped up in our joy for the other we
did not notice at first, but the hot sand had turned to soft cool grass below
our feet.
We stood and looked at the town before
us, was this the end of journey together?
As we looked into each other’s eyes we
knew the answer.
Good things should not come to an end if
it can be helped.
No this was now the start of a new journey, together, on into the town and beyond to take up new challenges that lay before us, together.
March 2001.
This poem came from talking to a person who's marriage had broken up and they were on their own for some time, they found it very hard and likened it to being in a wilderness. They then met a person who was in a similar situation. They then, "walked together!"
16.
The Lonely walk.
For work I have trundled for many a
mile,
And sore fingers I got, after jobs I did
dial.
That walk can be lonely, tiresome and
long,
It would be easy to give up, but you
have to be strong.
But one thing keeps coming back to mind,
No work tomorrow, and that's not so
kind.
Buy papers galore, and scour the pages,
All you want is to earn some wages.
In rain and snow, you have to walk,
Oh, just for someone for you to talk.
How boring it is with no reward,
A monotonous task it could well be
called.
But trudge, trudge, trudge, you have to
keep on,
Sometimes it helps to hum a song.
"Sorry sir, no vacancies this
week,"
To ask, they think you have a cheek.
It's always nice to have a lay in bed,
But it's not so good when there's mouths
to be fed.
But it's nice when there's someone you
know that loves you,
It helps to have a person like that who
will see you through.
There can be two, three, four million or
more,
But when it you, oh boy can it be sore.
You have to keep on, as you never know
what's around the next bend,
Just keep going, as I ' am sure you'll
come through it my friend.
I wrote this in the days when I had to go out looking for work. I haven't had to do it for a long time, and I think it is different these days with agency's and the internet etc. But I still remember those long "lonely walks."
17.
The View.
I sit in the shade of the balcony above,
I laze and watch the things that I love.
The ocean beyond, is so deep and wide,
On the sands the children play on the
slides.
Big ships, small ships, they sail to and
fro,
I am always wondering where they will go?
An old man walks he walks his dog on the
beach,
He may leave something that will make
you retch.
The sun it beams down on ice cream that
will run,
A greedy tongue licks it up to go in
their tum.
Waves lap in, as legs they go, jump,
Miss their landing and they will come
down with a bump.
Courting couples, they walk hand in
hand,
Then stop and write “I love you,” down
in the sand.
Kick-kick-kick, balls go up in the air,
Fly-fly-fly, the room with kites, they
will also share.
Arms of a swimmer go around like a fast
paddle boat,
He passes his friend, who’s just happy
to float.
Eyes they pop, as a young lady takes off
her tube,
Then she stops, realizing she may be
making a boob!
Young men they pose with bodies all tanned and brown,
And they all seem to think they are the
best in town.
The deck chairman comes around for ten
pence to sit,
A lady nips in front, for to pay, she
would have a fit.
The sun it goes down, the crowds drift
away,
They’ve had their fun, it’s been a nice
day.
I lay back and sip at my cup of tea,
I’ve had fun today, and its all been for
free!
I suppose this is me doing a little bit of dreaming. When we go away on holiday we always try and get a hotel room with a balcony near the sea. Very relaxing.
Apples.
The sun it shone on a summer’s day,
When two little boys went off to play.
Would it be cricket, a game in the park?
No, it was off to scrump apples, just
for a lark.
Down, sun kissed lanes, for the orchard
they were bound.
When doing their work, they would have
to make not a sound.
From the gate, inside they did peer,
One gave the wave that the coast was
clear.
The two young bandits nipped between the
trees,
The were looking for windfalls, amongst
the leaves.
Apples were gathered into greedy little
arms,
They didn’t know they were about to have
an alarm.
For the farmer was coming along their
way,
So, it wasn’t long before little legs
were running away.
Apples went tumbling as they made their
way to the gate,
Had they have been caught, it wouldn’t
have been so great.
Later they ate apples as they sat by the
lake,
But the next day, guess whose bellies did really ache?
June 1989.
This poem may be about some young lads I heard about , when I was young?
19.
The riverside.
The sun it twinkled on that sparkling
water,
A swan floated past, and did not falter.
The banks were lined with lush green
grass,
Plants and flowers were growing, and
bees buzzing fast.
The shade of that old oak kept me cool,
One or two leaves were about to fall.
Fishes they jumped with a look of greed,
I think they were looking for a little
feed.
The silence was broken by a small motor
boat,
A fisherman laid back, and watched his
float.
A small fellow popped his head out of
his house,
Then in a flash he was gone, was that a
mouse?
Two lover they walked in a sweet
embrace,
I see a squirrel vanish, without a
trace.
I lay back, as it is nice to just laze,
How peaceful it is here, to sit and gaze.
July
1988.
I hope the words above say it all, what it is like to just have a relaxing time in the sunshine.
20.
Trip of a lifetime.
The world we live in is a beautiful place,
Now let’s forget the troubles and others
people’s race.
Many of us will see little of it, and
that may be our fate,
So, close your eyes and come with me,
quick before its too late.
We’ll cross the Channel and stop in gay
Parie,
Look at the Eiffel Tower, and other
wonders you will see.
In Amsterdam you could walk among the
tulips in a field,
Smell the air with perfume it is filled.
There’s the splendour of the Alps, the
glaciers go up high,
The snow-covered peaks that almost touch
the sky.
In Venice we can see the arts, and
treasures, that the Italians keep with pride,
Then lay back in a gondola, as on the
canals we take a ride.
It’s time to take a rest, upon a beach
in sunny Spain,
Or look out in disbelief at the vast and
open plains.
Now we put to sea, as we cross the North
Atlantic,
The Big Apple is where we land, to see
their latest antics.
Life goes so fast there, at such a hairy
pace,
It takes some keeping up with, if you
join that crazy race.
We head out West, across some dry and
dusty land,
There’s a Canyon below, and yes, it is
that Grand!
In San Francisco there are hills and
marvellous sights,
And that Golden Gate, how it shines with
all it’s lights.
Let’s go down South to where the Aztecs
used to rule,
They wouldn’t know it now, with the
buildings, oh so tall.
The West Indies next, without which this
would be incomplete,
Palm trees, sea and golden sands, for me this
is treat.
A long river, we’ll sit upon its banks,
as we turn up in Brazil,
The birds and their colours will give
you such a thrill.
Deep down South and around the Horne, those
winds can blow a gale,
Now we’re North West bound across the
sea, again we’re on the trail.
There’s a giant flat top mountain to
greet us, as we roll up on the shore,
Let’s go up country and we’ll see wild
animals galore.
There’re those vast falls, and the lake
that runs out below,
You could see the fishes, as they swim
in and out the flow.
Now to the Valley of the Kings, their
riches they do hide,
We can stand and look, but will not go
inside.
Back to sea again, to find some
Kangaroo,
That Opera House, and a big giant
bridge, you may give out a coo.
Back up in Asia, there’s much to see and
do,
We could ride upon a rickshaw, that’s
just for me and you.
We could see the Tai, and the Great
Wall, and stop off in Tibet,
There’s a mountain near, you co uldn’t
climb, I wouldn’t mind a bet.
Last on the trip, is a sometimes cold
and snowy land?
We’re in Red Square, but it’s time to
go, so hold me by the hand.
We’re home again, in God’s green and
pleasant land,
We saw some lovely sights; you can
really say is grand.
Many places we did not see, but it gives
me a thrill,
Now my wish to you, is one day you’ll go
for real.
We live in a wonderful world, when we are not fighting each other! This was just my idea of a bit of fun to see some of these places.
21.
Work!
It was seven o’clock that wet and windy
morning,
Phil got on his bike; he was sleepy and
also yawning.
Some miles away his boss was about to
start his day,
For him it was the ‘Financial Times’ and
breakfast on a tray.
When he arrived at work, Phil was soaked
to the skin,
He had worked late last night and had
whiskers on his chin.
Clean-shaven his boss climbed into his brand-new
car,
His legs would not ach because he had
peddled too far.
Old rags Phil did don for his work on
the site,
Fr there was concrete here, and it was
not yet light.
In the office with ease the man he did
go,
And to the girls he had a new car to
show.
With much to do, what was rain and what
was sweat?
All Phil knew it was early yet, and that
he was so wet.
Now for the boss, he was to take in
lunch today,
After the wine he wouldn’t be to grey.
By the time dinner came, our friend, was
in need of a rest,
But there was far more to be done, which
would put him to the test.
The ‘Subie Boss’ was now in a daze,
He turned up on site, his eyes all a
glaze.
Phil had to see him, as more money he
needed
But the words that he begged were just
not heeded.
“I just can’t afford to give you more,”
the boss he did say,
“Oh, the new car, is just for less tax
to pay.”
“And as for the race horse?” Oh, that’s
just a hobby for the wife,”
Phil wishes he could have that kind of
strife.
His day it ends and he is back on his
bike, in the rain that is still pouring,
Then it’s home to baby-sit, that no doubt would be boring.
The boss is rushed by his wife, as they mustn’t be late for the do,
But when he holds out the new dress he
brought her it makes her coo.
Phil gets a kiss from his wife, who is
off to work to make ends meet,
He then sits down to soak his sore and
aching feet.
One was born to rule, the other to be
ruled,
But they’ll both be the same, when to
heaven they are called.
This may come across as very cynical of me, but it is very true of things I had experienced and had heard about. Also bearing in mind I wrote this close to 40 years ago. Have things changed much? You tell me?
22.
There’s a country far off, with a large
rock on its southern shore,
How majestic it looks, if you have never
seen it before.
It covers a land that looks lovely and grand,
But don’t be fooled, unless you have seen
it at first-hand.
It’s a land that is so prosperous, one
could even say rich,
So why is it that some are so poor, they
have to sleep in a ditch?
Who has the right to say a person is
second class?
And have they had a chance? You would be
right to ask.
Nine times out of ten they have had none
at all,
Because of what they were born, they
didn’t get a good school.
One has it all, and is it really their
land?
The other has roots, but has to hold out
their hand.
If you have flown across there in the
big silver bird,
“Look at the right,” the pilot you would
have heard.
“There’s an opencast mine, down there
below,
But don’t look to the left, as them we
don’t want to know!”
Some rabbits must have better hutches
than them,
So, this rule they have, we should all
condemn.
It’s like chalk and cheese to see how
they all live,
Peace is a gift to them, I would like to
give.
It’s about time we all got together to
unite,
Because the colour of our skin, does not
make it right.
Cut any race and red blood is what we
will bleed,
So, let’s try and live together, with
you I plead.
When the clouds cover that mountain so
high,
It may just be because, it’s giving a sigh.
I wrote this when I was working in the Falkland Islands, we had travelled through South Africa, which at the time (1983) was under the rule of apartheid. This has gone now (2022), since the early 1990's but it left a very deep impression on me, which was not good, as I hope you can tell from this poem.
23.
Karen.
It's a beautiful thing to hear a baby
cry,
They are saying, "I am alive,"
it's not a sigh.
I once saw a beauty a sleep on a bed,
She had big blue eyes and blonde hair on
her head.
She gave a small moan and a look of
greed,
I suppose she was thinking, where is my
feed?
As time went by, day by day she did
grow,
If only we then we knew her secret, we
now know.
Her brain may not have been the same as
a child of her age,
But to hear anyone say she was
different, would fill you with rage.
She may not have able to run, jump or
leap,
But like all of us, she was one of God's
little sheep.
So why do we have to label people these
days?
Because in her world she was happy in
her ways.
She would never cause pain, hurt or
kill,
Unlike her so-called betters, who would, just for a thrill.
One day she was taken not so well,
The tears in our eyes, they started to
swell.
Then God's angels came and took her to
play,
Now she is in his garden and is happy
and gay.
The time she was with us may not have
been all bliss,
But she was well loved and cared for,
take joy in this.
So please don't mock such a person as
this,
Give them a big hug or even a kiss.
This may all
sound sad, but no need to cry,
But do remember, but for the grace of
God, there go I.
April 1988.
This was a poem I wrote for my niece Karen, who passed away on the 1st of August 1970 at the age of 8years. I hope the words say it all?
24.
The Hidden Jewel.
The palm trees ringed the lagoon so
clear,
Sun danced on the surface, the peace you
could hear.
Like a mirror, that eye of the heavens
bounced back to the sky,
And deep below in her bed that oyster
did lay..
She had a rough hard irregular shaped
shell,
But warm inside her a grain of sand did
start to swell.
Two hinged valves will guard that little
gem,
And the Mother is soft enough for both
of them.
Like a new skin its layers will start to
grow,
Then in time, like a beacon it shall
glow.
When fully grown a Kings ransom it may
collect,
For this mollusc gives a gift that would
grace the most elegant of necks.
Its brilliant gloss resembles the
Northern Lights,
And similar to ice it may shine so
bright.
And as for that hard exterior, it will
soften any heart,
For given in kind, it will make its
mark.
That miracle below must be a gift from
above,
For the way it is made, it does show
much love.
25.
Ships
in the night.
Two ships may pass in the dead of night,
Just give out a toot, then vanish from
sight.
The crews may never know who the others
are,
Like two people may meet, then drift off
afar.
That chance encounter may occur at an
unexpected time,
And why to you? There's no reason or
rhyme.
Eyes could meet, followed by a smile so
shy,
Or a small chat that gives a twinkle in one’s
eye.
At that moment harps will play in heaven
above,
For you will know that you have found
your love.
Love at first sight is not always a good
thing,
But like a beautiful choir your heart
could sing.
Signs and signals will be made oh so
clear,
Feel that knight within you, that knows
no fear.
Your heart will beat like a base drum in
a band,
And you may feel a fool when back to
earth you land.
Then like those ships, you will pass
along your way,
And upon that cloud, you will no longer
stay.
When the facts sink in of what might
have been,
You pulse rate will quicken, put your
head in a spin.
At one time in your life this may happen
to you,
It's a moment to savour, should this
come true.
November 1990.
26.
Global
Warming.
“We’ll be alright,” this was said for many years.
“Oh, it is just extra rain, or a long hot summer.
But as the years have gone on we know this is not the truth.
People are saying we must do things before it is too late.
Many would say "it already is!"
The top people came to a COP, to sort it out,
But they come in jet planes and one had 85 cars!
There are places in the world where rivers are killing many.
And fires are destroying everything in front of it.
Yet they still dig the ‘black gold’ out of the ground.
Which makes the skies above so dark that it starts to cry!
When will it end? Some say we have only got two hundred years left?
I would like to think that will not be the case.
We can all work together so that it will change.
But to do that, we must think of others, and not just ourselves.
November 2021.
There is not a lot more to say than I have above.
27.
Thief of the night.
The sun goes down as the evening it
dawns,
Dark will come, as night it looms.
Front doors are locked for sleep ahead,
Young ones are safely tucked into bed.
Like a blanket from above, silence
covers the town,
Shower drops hit the flowers, but does
not drown.
All is now quiet, not a sound is heard,
Not even by a small flying bird.
But not all is asleep, as there’s
movement around,
In the woods beyond, something moves in
the ground.
Two eyes look out to survey the far-off
scene,
The thief of the night crawls out of the
green.
Four little paws they pound towards a
near bin,
Give him a few seconds, and he’ll be in.
He stretches aloft to nudge up that lid,
Bang! It toppled over, as on it he slid.
Gradually he inches towards his prey,
That half-eaten bird will be his meal
the next day.
A sudden noise stops him dead in his
tracks,
Good hearing is not a thing that he
lacks.
He looks at that ginger Tom with such a
glare,
It’s a look to say, “have a go, if you
dare!
With a look of contempt, the Tom passes
into the night,
I wonder what he will get up to before
the light?
After that disturbance, he decides it may
be best to go,
As he wouldn’t like to lose his prize to
any foe.
He turns and vanishes like the speed of
light,
Then our thief, he disappears into the
night.
July 1989.
I wrote this after a fox in our garden at the time caused us and neighbours a lot of trouble at nights.
28.
Whose
lives do we touch?
Some for a while, some for not so long.
For some it may seem when we have passed, that nothing has changed.
But that is not always the case.
Sometimes we know, if we or someone changes lives.
It can be seen, people we know have changed.
But for others change is silent.
A word to a person, who thinks about it later, and sometimes can’t even
remember who said it?
The way a person conducts their self, lets hope its in a good way.
Any of us can change or have input to another, and never know it.
If a person is to take something from us, let’s make it good for them.
We can choose to be anything in life, lets choose to be kind!
May
2020.
I wrote this last year and it was from thinking how we and others change other people lives, it happens a lot more than we realise at times, lets hope it is always for the better!
29.
The Home Coming.
The mist was down on that autumn morn,
It was early yet, not quite the dawn.
I saw the lights as they came into
sight.
I was hoping to get there before it was
bright.
Many a bumpy mile I have travelled for
this day,
It was going over in my mind what to
say.
The road it twisted and turned down to
the town,
This was no time to put one’s foot down.
The sun was rising as the car came to a
halt,
It stopped quite gently, not with a jolt.
The big grand house looked down on me
there,
It had been a long time, so I found I
could stare.
I knocked at the door, then felt queasy
inside,
“God man, you may have quit, but you’ve
still got your pride.”
The door it opened, there she was,
The love of my life, she wasn’t even
cross.
She grabbed me, then smiled and started to
cry,
I saw a small tear running down from her
eye.
“Why didn’t you tell me, write or phone?
Oh, I don’t care just as long as you are
home.”
She leapt into my arms, I could hardly
stand,
Then we walked into the hall as I held
her hand.
The children came running when they
heard I was there,
I had presents to give and stories to
share.
But my mind went blank as they all spoke
at once,
With my mouth wide open, I must have
looked like a dunce.
“Give your father time,” my wife said
with a glare,
He’s come a long way; do you think this
is all fair?”
The children they calmed, then sat by my
side,
Mind you, that was only after I gave
them a ride.
We talked and played, then kissed a lot,
This was a time never to be forgot.”
When the night it came I tucked the
babes into bed,
It’s a shame I had to work away for them
to be fed!
But now that was all over, once and for
all,
I would now be able to listen to tales
from school.
With the women I loved, I sat by the
fire that first night,
The smiles on our faces, told us the
future was bright.
We had been
through the pain of being apart,
But now we
had money, we so we could make a new start.
I liked what
I saw as I looked at my wife,
Now I was
thinking, “oh boy, this is the life!
No more
lonely nights of staring at four blank walls,
When you
think of it, we must have really been fools.
It’s sad that
a man should have to leave his family for them to survive,
But we have
done our bit, and thank God we are all still alive.
Never again
will I leave them, not even for pay.
It was good
to be home, for ever and a day.
August 1985.
I wrote this the year before I went to work in Algeria, it is not about me as such, but I know what it is like to work away from home for a long and to be away from family and friends. As do a lot of people!
30.
Percy the penguin.
It was a cold winters day, as I walked
on that far off beach,
I put my hand in my pocket and took out
a lovely big peach.
As I started to eat I saw something
coming my way,
He wobbled from side to side, it was a
penguin that was astray.
I stopped and waited as his big feet
flopped along,
There must be others, and I wondered
where they had gone?
He stopped and looked, then gave a
stare,
Did he have a tale of woe he wanted to
share?
He had a big fat belly that almost
touched the ground,
And big black wings, but he couldn't fly
around.
"Hello Percy penguin," I said
as I gave him a little grin,
He laid his head sideways; did he take
this in?
"Where's your mum and dad, have
they left you alone?"
The sad look in his eyes told me he only
wanted his home.
How sorry we both felt when a cry came
from the sea,
He looked at once to see what it could
be?
Percy's family they came running, to see
who was his new friend?
But he went to meet them so our little
chat came to an end.
They flopped off to the sea, was it just
for a bath?
To see those big flat feet, flop along, could only make you laugh.
July 1986.
31.
A Slice of the Cake.
Or take the family to the beach for some
fun.
Or just go out in the garden to have a
laze,
Even have a beer and end up in a daze.
I'd hoped this kind of life could go on
forever,
But there is so much we would have to
endeavour.
For there are some who want the whole
cake, because of their greed,
Just pick up a paper and about this you
can read.
No matter where we come from, be it red
or blue,
But to blot out the sun, can this really
be true?
To do away with things we have come to love,
Whatever happen to peace, and that
flying white dove?
So, we put our faith in a person when we
put down a cross,
They'll do things for us, but what will
be the cost?
I think its time they realised we just
want to get on with our lives,
And we wouldn't be able to go
underground into one of their hives.
I don't expect us to leave our back
doors open at night,
But with what has gone before us,
shouldn't we have better sight.
We can find plenty of money to light up
the sky,
Yet I can hear the rumble of tummies
along with a sigh.
The three wise men tried to sort out the
muck heap,
But when the sheep started to listen,
they were put to sleep.
The cake is big enough for a little
slice each,
So please share it about, instead of
making us reach.
June 1987.
I wrote this 35 years ago, and it is about the greed in the world. I would have thought at the time that this amount of time into the future things would have been a lot better. I look around and I might be right to think, they are worst!
Spring and Autumn.
A cry of a new baby was heard in that spring of 1901,
For a beautiful young lady had just born
a son.
"Isn't he lovely?" to his
father she said,
But he was thinking, it's another mouth
to be feed.
By no means were they rich, in fact you
could say poor,
It took him all his time to keep the
wolf from the door.
As a baby our boy learnt to walk with
his feet so bare,
And he would have to do that later as
the shoes they had to share.
What they did give him love and
affection,
But there were times in his youth when
he needed correction.
But if there was one thing he was not,
and that was bad,
Oh, but to see a young man march off to
war, that was really sad.
To do his bit for his bit for king and
country he felt so proud,
But when the bombs went off near him he
nearly cried out aloud.
But survive he did and he fought so
well,
Even if in the trenches his feet did
swell.
Not so many brave men came home that
went by his side,
But a smile on his face showed much
pride.
It was a "land fit for hero's,"
or so the posters said,
So why were there day's when he could
hardly be fed?
That gentle young man had been taught
how to kill,
Yet no one had taken the time to show
him a skill.
When there was work to be had, he was
the first in the line,
But there was not much about, that was
the crime.
He lost both of his parents in one awful
year,
Even a brave young man could not fight
back a tear.
Sadness was put aside for joy, as a way
to compensate,
For he met a shy young lady that he
thought was just great.
They had no money to go out, not even to
ride,
So instead they walked together by each
others side.
They had found a love that would have to
be fed,
So, as you guessed, they were soon to be wed.
They would not be the first to be
married without a pound in their pocket,
But they had a front door, so at night
they could lock it.
As time went by their hearts were filled
with joy,
As they could now share their love with
new baby boy.
Times may have been hard but worst was
to come,
For yet again our friend had to pick up
a gun.
For twice in a lifetime he marched off
again,
Only this time he really did fear it may
be the end.
Many a long year he was away from his
wife,
And the day he was wounded he thought he
would pay with his life.
But in good hands he managed to be
nursed back to health,
Yet in all this time he thought of his
family and never himself.
What a joyous day it was with his family
when they were reunited,
And the smiles on their faces showed
they were delighted.
But five years from home is a long time
to suffer,
So, it took them some time to get used
to each other.
That they did, and how well it was done,
And he said in anger, never again would
he pick up a gun.
Unlike the last war, there was work he
could find,
But to toil long hours can become such a
grind.
As the years went past, labour he did,
He needed the money to bring up another
kid.
They never grew rich, but times did get
better,
Then one day he sat down and opened a
letter.
He cried with joy, as he the lines he read,
"We've got a grandson to his wife
he said
They both hugged and kissed as to them
this meant a lot,
And who do you think were the first ones
to rush out and buy a new cot?
To the new born they gave much, and
plenty was done,
It was a way of making up for what they
could not give their son.
They had not been able to share the fun
of their child in the war,
But now they could, so they did by the
score.
The lines on our friend’s face grew
longer each day,
He was getting old, but it's not easy to
say.
Then he knew the saddest day of life,
As one morn he woke, to find his still
sleeping wife.
Oh, the pain that went through him and
he felt the grief,
The tears ran from his eyes as he bent
to lay his wreath.
But time is a great healer and friends
helped a lot,
But by the look in his eyes, by him she
would never be forgot.
As he sat by his fire you could tell it
was time to reminisce,
For the days gone by, you knew he would
surly miss.
By this time, he had young grandsons by
his side,
He told of his memories, and they knew
he had not lied.
My father and I saw London's first tram,
And I remember taking your father out in
his pram.
He had seen two world wars and men on
the moon,
Also, many other things that went by, oh
too soon.
In the autumn of his life he closed his
eyes to sleep,
But those memories of him, I shall always
keep.
February 1986.
This was loosely based on my Grandad's life, who was my mothers father. My father died when I was 4 years old, and while we did not live that close to them, he and my grandmother did a lot to help us. They were hard times for he and people of his age to live through. This is a small tribute to a person who I felt was a great man!
33.
Month
by Month.
Warm in a cot, a new born babe gave out a small cry.
When July it came, it was hot and dry,
The babe a smile, but also a tear in her eye.
That August the sun did shine, but the storms they did bang,
The little one rolled over, and Mum had nappies to hang.
Damp and shorter days came with September,
Our lass gave her first laugh, which was a time to remember.
That October was wet, but sometimes bright,
The babe sat, and took note of the light.
November was cold for the winter to come,
In the mirror she thought she had found a chum.
Cold and frosty it was that Christmas morn,
But she was just happy to pull hair, when she awoke at dawn.
The new year brought days that had a snap in the air,
We saw her crawl, then stand by a chair.
The snow lay thick that St Valentine’s day,
She opened a box, then started to play.
The winds they blew, as in March they do,
Our lass knew her name, as she gave out a coo!
April was as cold, and as wet as could be,
She repeated my name, as I smiled with glee.
We saw some sun as May it came in,
Our little monkey could make a din.
The sun it beamed, as it had one year before,
One candle awaited her, as she walked through the door.
July 1989.
Another one that I wrote many years ago. I remember being in a conversation regarding how much a new born is able to do in it's first year. So I put that first year together with the seasons.
34.
Dreams.
Well, until you wake up, and that’s the hitch.
Or break a world record, and be the talk of the town,
How would you look, when you wear that crown?
To climb Mount Everest, and be top of the heap,
Run a marathon, or a record-breaking leap.
Or maybe just put some pennies in an old jam jar,
So, you can save up, and have your very own car.
We all have dreams, no matter how big or small,
So, hang on to them, and who knows, you might walk tall?
August 1988.
These are just dreams!
35.
Little Monkey.
I saw a little monkey in the zoo,
I wasn’t quite sure what he was about to
do.
He swung from a branch, and went to and fro,
I wondered if he knew which way he would
go.
He went up and down, then around and
around,
Bang! He fell, and crashed to the
ground.
September 1985.
I used to call my daughter Jean a little monkey when she was young as she was always messing about, I think that is where this comes from.
36.
What is
a friend? Part 1.
Over the years I have known many a folk,
Somme have been good and others a joke.
As the saying goes, a friend in need is
a friend indeed,
But some would barter them for their own
greed.
Never be fooled by how much one may
appear to be liked by another,
You can be guiled, even by one’s own
brother.
I knew such a person, whom I thought of
as a friend,
Alas, that’s not the way it worked out
in the end.
I will try to be brief, I also hope
plain,
But as I think back, it gives me much
pain.
When we first met, he was like a sheep
that was lost,
I among others tried to cheer him, no
matter the cost.
Improvement was seen by many he knew,
I saw it myself, as I stood back to
view.
When you know someone is not happy
inside,
It’s good to see them come out, and no
longer hide.
But as the years they passed, I was
given advice,
Oh, how I wished I’d listened, just once
or twice.
But no, I knew better, and was taken in,
I should have known that was such a
false grin.
It was too late when I found he would
lie to even family and wife,
So, for a person to do that, what would
he give for my life.
Then it came that I had something he
wanted so much,
So, he lied and cheated, and made much
fuss.
He got what he wanted at my expense,
But did he really think I was that
dense?
“It wasn’t me,” he said with another
false smile,
But prove it I did, and that only took a
short while.
Now I am pleased to report, for him it
all went wrong,
So no longer can he whistle such a happy
song.
Now many know him for what he is, now he
can be teased,
God does pay debts without money, for this I am pleased.
So be cautious until you can find a friend you can trust,
Because when the knife goes in ones
back, it can be with great thrust.
January 1985.
Its nearly 40 years since I wrote this poem. Reading back on it I sound very bitter, I was at the time and very upset. But that was a long time ago, I thought I would put it in as others may feel the same way at some point. The next one which is, What is a friend? Part 2, is a lot more cheerful.
37.
What is a friend? Part 2.
We’ve heard of a friend that was not so keen,
But the next time around I wasn’t so
green.
So, what is friend you may ask yourself?
For a start they wouldn’t worry about
your wealth.
It’s a person that would be there in
need,
And you know they wouldn’t worry about
your creed.
They would try to be jolly, when they
know you are down,
Even if they could well be wearing a
frown.
I must admit I have known many a such
mate,
And the feeling you get inside is just
great.
Don’t worry where they are from, or
colour of their skin,
Because when you find that close friend
they can be closer than kin.
Have different points of view, even
argue right is wrong,
But as long as you can trust them,
you’ll sing a happy song.
A friend may pop up in the most unlikely
place,
But don’t make your choice by the look
of their face.
Hold them at arm’s length, until you
know they are the one,
To save yourself a lot of pain, as wrong
is easily done.
But don’t want it all one way, you must
meet them half way there,
As you may find they also have problems
they’ll want to share.
So, try and do them a good deed in
return,
And you’ll find they’re the kind that
will never see you burn.
A friend could be a he or maybe a she,
But if you look after them, you’ll see a
smile of glee.
So, look after a good friend, no matter
what ever,
Then you can rejoice in the fact you can
do things together.
Oh, what a joy it can bring, to have a
friend you can trust,
And don’t have to look behind you in
wait of that great thrust!
January 1985
38.
Sports Day.
The tension was mounting as the runners
took their marks.
When they leave the line, there could
well be sparks.
The race was on, when the starter gave
the sign,
The hungry athletes, they flew off the
line.
Legs and feet, they pounded along the
track,
For want of trying, there was not a
lack.
Determination on those young faces was
oh so clear,
But for the one that came last there
could be a tear.
The one we were rooting for was now in
the clear,
And when she broke the tape we gave such
a cheer.
It was not the Olympics, but her face it
did beam,
And the winner was our five-year-old, daughter Jean.
June 1985.
39.
All
Seasons.
Oh, beautiful tree just standing there,
I would pick your fruit, if only I dare.
I see you in all seasons of the year,
When it’s cold, do you want to shed a
tear.
It seems no time since you were a twig
in the ground,
Now you’ve grown so big and round.
The storms they come, and you stand and
stare,
You sway a bit, but you’re always there.
The blossom that decorates you in
Spring,
Makes you look such a handsome thing.
When the sun comes, your small fruits
will appear,
And how you look after it, makes you
such a dear.
Then make your fruit so crisp and sweet,
I can then eat it on my garden seat.
The windfalls come, and they fall to the
ground,
They make a noise, you can hear the
sound.
You shed your leaves for the new one’s
next year,
And the proud way you stand, you have no
fear.
Oh, beautiful tree, you’re always there,
I bet you have some secrets to share.
40.
Best day of the week.
Monday’s the day we all seem to hate,
But it’s nearer another pay day, and
that we all rate.
Tuesday it comes, and funds are low,
If you run out of petrol, you may need a
tow.
Wednesday’s the day when you lend a quid
or two,
But it’s Thursday tomorrow, and the week
just flew.
Hooray! It’s here, when they hand out
the pay,
Until next week it’s our best day.
November 1986.
This goes back to the days when I used to get paid weekly on a Thursday. It seems a very long time ago.
41.
Adam.
There’s a big dog I know, that lives
near by,
If you also knew him, you would laugh
till you cry.
“Walk boy” and he would sit, “sit boy”
and he will walk,
And the way he looks, you may think he
could talk.
For ripping a curtain, he would get a
good telling off,
He would lay his head sideways as if you
were soft.
A lump of cake, he would love to eat,
Then turn his nose up at the best of
meat.
When he’s been bad, he will look like he
is dumb,
But what joy he gets if you rub his tum.
He might be big, but to see a cat or
mouse,
He would turn and run, and hide in the
house.
He wouldn’t bite, as he does things with
ease,
But watch out that paperboy, if again he
does tease.
Is he human or is he a dog, I ask with
care?
I often wonder when he sits in the
chair.
Woof woof he will bark, if he thinks you
are foe,
But he’s all right with us, because Adam
we know.
June
1988.
This was my sisters families dog. We did not live far apart when they had Adam, and we used to take him for walks and look after him at times, he was a lovely dog.
The Faceless Monster.
It must have been the darkest hour, as I
lay fast asleep,
I had been enjoying rest that had been
so very deep.
How comforting it is to feel so warm and
safe,
that was until I saw what could have
been my fate.
Because not for the first time I awoke
with a scream,
For once again I had experienced that
very bad dream.
At the outset I am deceived, as it is
always so nice and clear,
But come the end, well, I only know
fear.
The time is warm, with the sun so
bright,
I have things about me that are my life.
Joy and laughter fill the air,
One could be fooled into thinking, I
have not a care.
Then the big dark shadow makes the sky
go grey,
For that gigantic faceless monster is
coming my way.
Its size is so vast, that it seems
unreal,
Then it takes my possessions as if it
will kill.
It is one big mass of outstretched arms,
With sticky little fingers that are
itching its palms.
Backed in a corner, I shout, "go
away," as if in alarm,
But then a gentle voice makes me feel calm,
"Do not be frightened, there's no
need to worry,
We have only come to take some more of
your money!"
"You took it all last time." I
cry out in pain,
"Yet you keep coming back, again
and again!!"
"But your poor and must stay like
that,
So, hand it over, there's a good
chap."
In my temper I yell, "no more will
I pay,
I refuse flat, now what do you
say?"
"If that is the case, well, you
leave me no choice,
I must pass you along, to an even
tougher voice.
"Got you this time," it roars
as it pull's me in,
Then they all shout at once so I don't
understand a thing.
Then before I knew it, I pinned down to
the ground,
And with red tape was tightly bound.
"My knight in shining armour, for
him I shall send."
"Oh, don't be silly, we've already
got you accountant friend."
Oh, those hands, they really started to
squeeze,
Then with me it started to tease.
"This could be the time when we
really kill,
No," said another, "we'll just
hurt for our thrill.
It inflicted more pain, then let me go,
all torn and broke,
But warned it would be back, and go for
the throat.
Away it went, looking for someone else
to chase,
It was then I realized, it was even more
than two faced.
September 1986.
This was from the days when I was self-employed. It is just a bit of fun.
43.
Treat of the week.
There's a weekly job, my wife thinks it’s
top's,
But I am not so sure when I am dragged
around the shops.
We rush in and out as if there will be
no next day,
"I want to go home," is a
thing I dare not say!
It could be so hot that it puts you in
daze,
Or the snows may be down to give your
face a glaze.
But there's shopping that has to be
done,
So, with fingers crossed, I hope the
next is the last one.
But that's not the case, as again I am led,
If I moan I am told, "we've a
family that has to be fed.
Feet they ache as to the supermarket we
trot,
My temperature rises as under the collar
I get hot.
Now it's to sweat, as its trolley
pushing time,
I must resemble a race driver on the
starting line.
We're off, I meekly join the crazy
track,
I am a bit scared of the other drivers,
and that's a fact.
But my navigator, she pull's me along,
We turn right at the eggs and we're
going strong.
You dare not stop, not even to rest,
As some of these drivers have passed no
test.
We head for the cakes with me thinking,
"the M1 has nothing on this,"
My co-driver consults her map, no sorry, her list.
February 1989.
44.
Fly on the Wall.
But he’s always buzzing away with his
song.
Buzz, buzz, buzz, he’s here, he’s there
and on the floor,
That little marvel can go where nothing
has gone before.
Oh, for a day just to have his lot,
It would by okay, as long as you didn’t
get the swat.
Just think of the things you could see
and hear,
Some that would make life a little more
clear!
There are some peoples on whose wall you
could sit,
And if you stayed while, you could see
if they are fit?
Or fly into the office of ‘Spot the
Ball,’
You could become rich, by being on their
wall.
An exam to sit, you could do it with
ease,
You could be in and out, just like a
breeze.
The corridors of power and where you
could end,
But shivers down the spine that could
send.
To not know of somethings may be best,
Because to hear, you may wonder who is
the pest?
So, buzz, buzz, buzz, we ‘ll leave that
fly on the wall,
But what a surprise, if only they could
tell all.
July 1988.
45.
What’s Love?
What does that word mean? I would like to know,
Some think they know, but find it hard
to show.
Is it when two people are together, and
dare not be apart,
But also, there must be trust to be in
each other’s heart.
Maybe it’s when your head is in a spin,
after being hit by Cupid’s Arrow,
But when you come down to earth, you may
find that path is very narrow.
Or when you’re young, there’s puppy love
as it is called,
But with you, could end up, finding out
that you’ve been fooled.
Some people find it oh to easy to say,
“I love you,”
So, think to yourself, are these words
really true?
Most of us will get bitten at least
once, or so it seems,
So, we will all have our own ides of
what that little word means.
March 1990.
46.
"Yak-yak-yak."
"Yak-Yak-Yak," two women at
the door,
"Yak-yak-yak," they talk of
things that might seem a bore.
"Have you heard of Mrs W, and her
varicose veins,"
"Yes, and what about her kids who
play around dirty drains."
"Yak-yak-yak," they can always
put the world to rights,
"Yak-yak-yak," with them the
future could be so bright.
"If I were in charge I would cut
the tax's today,"
"Then bring down the prices so
there would be less to pay."
"Yak-yak-yak," for character
reference, to them you could send,
"Yak-yak-yak," so long as
they're not the ones you ever offend.
"Look at her over there, she's
nothing but a little tart,"
"Don't let your Fred see her, or it
will do in his heart."
"Yak-yak-yak," no harm from
them, would they ever mean,
"Yak-yak-yak,” and you could always
be sure their house was clean.
"Oh, I was in her house, oh what a
pen and ink,"
"And did you see all the dirty
dishes she lets lay in her sink?"
"Yak-yak-yak," if you take
your dog for a walk, steer clear of their path,"
"Yak-yak-yak," cause if he
leaves something behind, you dare not laugh.
"That dirty dog's been up to his
tricks again,"
"And he walked into it, did my Len."
"Yak-yak-yak," some things may
be better kept from their eye's,
"Yak-yak-yak," but about you
be the truth, and never the lies."
"He's got a bit on the side, that
one who thinks' he's a toff,"
"If my Fred did that, I'd cut it
straight off!!"
"Yak-yak-yak," two women at
the door,
"Yak-yak-yak," they talk of
things that they seem to adore. "yak-yak-yak!"
July 1989.
This was a joke poem, from days gone by!
47.
The
boxer.
The trainer shouted, with all his might.
Now dance around and weave your spell,
You’ll put him away before the next
bell.
A big right hand landed on his opponent’s
chin,
The new boy wonder was jumping around
the ring.
“You’ll soon be champ, I’ll tell you
now,
The trainer called out as the boy had
his shower.
“You’re the best I’ve seen for a long,
long time,
No longer will you be fighting for
nickel or dime.
The crowds they cheered as he made for
the top,
And no one ever thought he would be a
flop.
He was soon to be wearing that golden
crown,
And that was when he started to wear a
frown.
“Look at the state of you” his trainer
did yell,
“You’ll never be fit to go out at the
bell”.
“What’s happened?” He asked when he did
calm,
Then he saw the marks upon his arm.
“Oh, my God, you silly young fool,”
“Why do that, when you could have kept
so cool?”
“It was because I wanted to look like a
big brave boy,
Then with me they did start to toy”.
“They have got me hooked just like a
fish,
Just to turn the clock back, is all I
wish”.
“But you’ve walked a path of no return,
No big money now will you ever earn”.
“The crowd will cheer you on no more,
Cause like the loser you are, you’re on
the floor.”
He was on his own, when the habit he
tried to kick,
But it was to late now, as he had really
been bit.
From a fit young man, to a haggard old
tramp,
He never knew how close he was to being
the champ.
If that dammed needle comes near your arm,
Turn away fast in great alarm.
There are good things to be had with a
clear and sober mind,
So, turn away from evils, or into the
ground you will grind.
I wrote this for a friend of mine, who died of the above.
48.
Night Out.
As you walk past, you may well give a
glare.
For on street corners that the kids now
dance,
Will they hurt themselves, you think at
a glance?
To move the giant radios they use, could
be a strain,
For the size of them, you might be
better off with a crane.
The kids they jump, then spin and twirl
around,
When on their heads, will they screw
into the ground?
The language they speak, you may not
know,
Cause with back spins and belly-copters,
around they go.
They have battles, but thank God, that
is not a fight,
And the different colours that dance
together, can only make the future bright.
One dances to the beat, while the rest
guard them in a ring,
Then the next one takes over with a roll
and a spine.
You may think this is all very silly,
and they may end up stiff,
But it’s better than fighting, or going
off for a sniff.
October 1988.
49.
A Day to
Remember.
The big red bus was packed with many a smiling face,
For where we were going, to us was a heaven of a place.
And for a small boy, the only way to travel was upon my Grandads knee,
I looked and listened as my elders and smiled with glee.
The talk was of one thing only, as we made for our holy shrine,
And in our hearts, we knew we would beat the ‘Red Devils,’ this time.
“White Hart Lane,” the man shouted as we made for our weekly treat,
It was all he could do, to avoid the stampeding feet.
Rosette upon my chest, and rattle in hand,
I am proud to say I marched with such a jolly band.
The crowd upon the terraces, was oh so very large,
But it was unheard of then, for the fans to make a charge.
Balloons and streamers filled the air, as our teams they took the
field,
The noise about us was quite intense, and we knew this wouldn’t yield.
Like the troopers upon the stage, they were there to entertain,
Unlike some we have come to know, who only want to gain.
The all-time greats, Charlton, Jones and Danny boy,
With those defences, we were sure they were about to toy.
But the Daddy of them all for me, was that little cockney lad,
The fact we have no one like him today, would make you sad.
He would jink and turn, was the ball tied to his feet?
To say I saw Greavsie play, for me was such a treat.
For the men in white, the goals began to pour,
And as for that little wizard, what a goal he was about to score.
It was on the halfway line, that the ball he did collect,
The only way it was going, was in the opponent’s net.
We joked with the man next to us, who was wearing red and white,
“It’s only a game,” he smiled, “I only came to see the sights!”
The game was over, the team we loved had gone and won five nil,
Oh, what a joyous and happy day, that’s why I remember it still.
50.
The Race.
Take your marks and toe the line,
The starter shouted, as he checked the
time.
The gun cracked into the still air
above,
Our man ran off as he gave a small
shove.
Around the track, then out of sight,
They followed the road which bent to the
right.
This was a marathon task, in which he
would get no rest,
Like other things in life, he would be
put to the test.
His feet would pound out mile after
mile,
Legs would ache, it would be hard to
smile.
He said he would not give in, not even
when it got rough,
Because when you want something,
sometimes you need to be tough.
Water it ran from him, like it would
from a fall,
Oh, to be first this time, he could
really walk tall.
As the minutes ticked by the weaker he
got,
How far had he come, he had really forgot?
He wasn't in front, but it was within
reach,
If he could do it, about it he could
teach.
He was fighting hard as his goal was the
lead,
It was some time before he saw his feet
had started to bleed.
It was only then he could feel the pain,
He could give up now and blame the
strain.
"No," the pain he would he
would push to the back of his mind,
He now didn't see the faces as beside
the road they lined.
"Is it twenty I've done?" His
head was in a spin,
"I must keep going, I am determined
to win."
When the pain barrier he hit, it was
like a wall,
Now it was will power, so there was no
way he would fall.
"Push, push, push," he had to
shout to himself,
"Push, push, push, I won't be left
on the shelf."
His second wind came like a breath of
fresh air,
Now he could really run, as he had not a
care.
Pain it was gone, when more tired
runners he did past,
He now knew he could win, and he was
game for the task.
He was now so pleased, that he never
gave in like many before,
He had been beaten, but he picked himself
off the floor.
Such power gushed through his veins when
the line came into sight,
But there was still one to pass, it was
going to be tight.
The gap had to be closed, with just a
few yards to spare,
They had come all that way, now it would
be won by a hair.
He thought he may drop, as he drove for
the line,
Then his chest broke the tape, he'd made
it in time.
He had nearly been dead, now he was full
of jest,
He was the first to console who he had
beat, in the red vest.
An underdog he had been called, not
given a chance,
But he took up the challenge, and picked
up the lance.
That proud young man was carried
shoulder high,
The best time of his life, he started to
cry.
He had nearly given up, when he was
feeling down,
But he kept going to wear that golden
crown.
Victory is defeat turned upside down,
So, don't give up, or you'll be wearing
a frown.
January 1989.
The long Walk.
The man pointed to the crowd that had just come into sight.
“Yes,” came the reply, “lets go and greet them.”
The people ran to meet the others.
They had food, and boots, for tiered and bleeding feet.
They meet the marchers and gave them food and drink.
They helped them rest, until they were ready for the last bit.
They marched behind them as the end they neared.
They flew flags in the air above them.
From Jarrow the walk had been so long.
This was a hunger march, of that have no fear.
We all moan when things have gone on strike.
But for those who came before, we would have a lot less today.
Remember those brave marchers.
November 2021.
The poem above is about The Jarrow March – 5th October 31st 1936, also known as the Jarrow Crusade. This was an organised protest march against unemployment and poverty in Jarrow in the 1930’s.
My Grandad William Crisp told me that he and other union men walked out of London to meet the marchers with boots, food, water etc for them, and then walked into London behind them.
52.
We are all the same age. Just at different times.
This man said to me, we are all the same age, just at different times.
What does this idiot mean?
We are all different ages!
He was born 50 years before me.
Yet he say’s we are all the same age, I need to know more.
We are the same age, just at different times.
What I asked, are you mad?
No, we were both born, but at different times!
We both went to school, but at different times!
We will both fall in love, but at different times!
We both will both get ill, but at different times!
We will both feel pain and joy, but at different times!
We will both die, but at different times!
I stopped him there, as his thinking hit home.
As we are all the same age, but at different times!
June 2022.
I am not sure where I first came up with this, or where from? But the first time I said it was to a younger chap in a pub with my daughter Claire one night. And the truth is, "we are all the same age, just at different times!" For all of the above reasons.
53.
My life, 70 years on.
In June 1952, Our Queen became our Queen.
102 days later, I came into this world.
What has happened in that time?
For me and the world, I would say a lot, let’s have a little look.
That same year we saw the Mousetrap for the first time in London.
Along with the start of the UK records charts.
What was the first number one I ask?
In 56 Rock and Roll sweeps the world, and I lost my Father.
Shortly after I started school, at four years old!
In 61 my team did the double, that was great fun.
In 62 we had the Cuban Missile Crisis,
We thought the world was going to end.
In 63 we lost JFK, but good news was around the corner, if you were
English that is!
In 66 we saw Nobby dancing as Bobby picked up that 12-inch bit gold.
Two years later I went to work for the first time at 15, that was to
last for 51 years.
Not the same job!
The 70’s saw Punk Rock and a family for me.
It also saw a jubilee for our Queen.
The 1980’s saw a war in the South Atlantic and work there for me also.
We also had another arrival to our family!
The 90’s came fast with more wars to follow.
This decade went fast as fireworks brought in a new millennium.
This came in and shortly after two towers crashed to the ground.
I had a new wife as I pressed on with a new life.
Our ways changed a lot, as we had phones in our pockets.
Cars that can drive themselves, but people still stop work for more
pay.
The Queen saw in 70 years along with me.
But the world still can’t live together, that’s the biggest upset for
me.
A lot has happened in that time, not always happy.
It could be a lot better,
But it could also, be a lot worst!
By the way the first number 1 was “Here in my Heart” by Al Martino.
September 2022.
54.
Where Has This Year Gone?
Where has that year gone, I hear so many say?
It is September now, where has it gone?
It will be Christmas before you know it.
The shops are full of cracker’s, and the clocks have not gone back yet!
How fast does life go?
I was at school for ever.
It seems like that, if you have issues, that is!
My teens and twenties, also seemed forever.
Then I turned thirty,
Then a month after that I was forty,
Then fifty-two months later,
Before you know it,
Six score and ten had passed.
In the scheme of things,
We are here for just a blink in the eye.
But in that time,
Let’s try to do, what is right to do.
55.
I Love Music.
I was born a month or so before the UK charts came to us.
The radio was always on as ‘Rock and Roll’ entered our lives.
Elvis went to the “Jail to Rock.”
Chubby helped us, “Rock Around the Clock.”
The “Sixties” came!
And, “Oh how they did Swing!”
We saw so much, from,
The Beatles and Stones that Rolled,
And we were on a Cliff, when we went on a, “Summers Holiday.”
And if a person was really quiet, they could hear, “The Sound of
Silence.”
Another ten years were gone,
When we ate some American Pie,
One can only “Imagine” what John was signing about?
And of course, Jimi walked “All along the Watchtower,” with his
“Machine Gun!”
As the next decade came, we went “Underground,”
As we did not know what was coming?
Was that because of all the “Madness?”
In 88, Mike and his Mechanics said “goodbye,” to his father,
In the Living Years.
In those years, Stevie, “Just called to say, he loved us.”
When another ten years, they had pasted,
Robin Hood, refused to leave number one.
But, “I will always Love You,” and “Love is all Around,”
Were, not far behind him.
All of this has been such fun,
And I have not even touched on opera, or the musicals.
We could go to, “South Pacific” or “Oklahoma,” for that.
Or who knows, have a “Love Story.”
The list could go on and on, but guess what?
I love music.
This came to me one Friday night when I was working on my poems and had BBC4 on watching an old concert of Simon and Garfunkel.
September 2022.
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