Scaryman

First hand up in class

Forgot my trainers for PE

Busy, maturing faster than boys

Because that’s just biology.

Now your hands are too rough,

And your teeth are too stained.

In some bar talking travel,

Your small business, surfing in Bali. 

At last orders, Janis rings out.

The wail of a woman left lonely.

Her voice cracks the tinny speakers,

Another pint for you, malbec for me.

Perched here, waiting to be chosen

More than I want to be free.

To lie in the bed I've made

To the echo of if only.