SUBS - ARE MINE DUE?

Sometimes I think my subs are due, I just can’t remember
Did I pay them early May, or was it last December?
But here’s a line to say I’m well and not among the dead
I’m getting more forgetful and mixed up in my head.

I’ve got used to my arthritis, to my dentures I’m resigned
I can manage my bifocals but Oh god I miss my mind!
Sometimes I can’t remember when standing on the stairs,
Whether I’m going up or coming down from there.

Before the fridge, so often, my head is filled with doubt,
Did I put the food away? Or come to take it out.
And sometimes when its dark and with my nightcap on my head
I don’t know if I’m retiring, or getting out of bed.

If my subs are not yet due, please forgive my for
I may have already sent them and don’t want to be a bore.
As I stood before the post-box my face was very red
I didn’t post this off to you, I OPENED IT INSTEAD!

James R. Dawe ex: Welsh Guards 1953-55


Back to Poems

Back to Main Page