Advent 2023: Day 4

 

Image: a railway platform with the words MIND THE GAP painted for the benefit of those alighting from the train, so that the letters are upside-down from the perspective of those waiting to board the train.

 

Now is the season for journeys home by train
(it has been too long)
The door jolts open, and a voice
cries out:
‘AaNY teas, coffees, beer, wine—
any snacks?’
shuffles along, cajoles alike both customers and trolley,
negotiates the obstacle of errant arms
and feet that trespass in the narrow way
of passage.
I contemplate his offer,
and decide.

 

Passengers a-lighting,
please mind the gap
between believing ourselves to be
in no need of refreshment,
and grasping every offered opportunity
through rote conditioning, or boredom.

 

Advent 2023: Day 3

 

Image: a railway platform with the words MIND THE GAP painted for the benefit of those alighting from the train, so that the letters are upside-down from the perspective of those waiting to board the train.

 

Now is the season for journeys home by train
(it has been too long)
As we approach
the next stop, fellow passengers shift
in their seats, excuse themselves,
“This is me.” We dance
to rearrange ourselves,
as coats and bags are lifted down
from overhead, and
aisle and carriage-ends are filled
with restless passengers,
anxious now, just to get home.
We pull into a station; idly, I survey
a place, a town—a life that is not mine.
Warm light through windows
spilt on rain-slick streets.

 

Passengers a-lighting,
please mind the gap
between the life that beckons you
and those that beckon
other lives.

 

Advent 2023: Day 2

 

Image: a railway platform with the words MIND THE GAP painted for the benefit of those alighting from the train, so that the letters are upside-down from the perspective of those waiting to board the train.

 

Now is the season for journeys home by train
(it has been too long)
Twisted, side-on, I edge my way down
a full carriage … 25, 26, 27…
Carriage C, seat 27.
Reserved, from here:
this seat—my seat—
already taken.
Dilemma: a Very British
Problem, to speak,
or not to speak?
“Excuse me, but, you’re in my seat—”
what to be gained, from
confrontation?
Do I keep moving forward,
keep searching for an empty place?

 

Passengers a-lighting,
please mind the gap
between imposter syndrome
and your God-given dignity.