It's New Year's Eve, Eve, if your name is Eve
It was New Year's Eve Eve, yesterday, Eve
And even if it wasn't New Year's Eve
It would be an eve of a new day, Eve
New day, new year, even new decade, Eve
Evens out in time, don't give Adam, Eve
It's even odd for Eve on New Year's Eve
Odds on it's odder on New Year's Eve Eve
Add Adam and it's oddly Eden, Eve
This evening, stay even, best believe, Eve
Leave boredom, heave a sigh of relief, Eve
Behaving is the brave thing, even Steve
Says it's even stevens. Is New Year's Eve
For mischieving or achieving, Eve? Eve??
Wednesday 31 December 2014
Tuesday 30 December 2014
3058 - Fretting about things
Quick, write a sonnet before my guitar
Session, which has to be before Derby
Play Leeds at quarter to eight. Revenge for
The Rams, I hope, for somehow losing the
Away match at their place. Come on Johnny
Russell, Chris Martin and chums, fill the net
More than Santa's stocking, foot of the tree
Piled high, stack the goals up, make Leeds regret
Beating us last month! Warming up the fret-
board I'll soon be, 'fore you know where you are
But what to play? Doesn't matter to me
Variety's good, so genres don't dictate
I'll play anything, anyhow or where
But first, it's a wee toilet trip for me!
Session, which has to be before Derby
Play Leeds at quarter to eight. Revenge for
The Rams, I hope, for somehow losing the
Away match at their place. Come on Johnny
Russell, Chris Martin and chums, fill the net
More than Santa's stocking, foot of the tree
Piled high, stack the goals up, make Leeds regret
Beating us last month! Warming up the fret-
board I'll soon be, 'fore you know where you are
But what to play? Doesn't matter to me
Variety's good, so genres don't dictate
I'll play anything, anyhow or where
But first, it's a wee toilet trip for me!
Monday 29 December 2014
3057 - Cold cold winter
Back to work, like back to school, just as bad
Quiet though, few in, a few chats here and there
A bit more of the condoc written, had
The chance to do more, but by four, no more
Could be borne, I was bored, so at half-four
I wound my way home, via Sainsburys
Yes sir, yes sir, two bags full but no more
But nothing that will help me with the freeze
Keep the door shut, don't want balcony breeze
Easing its way in, stay out there, I said
To the wind which I talk to, I can't bear
It on a winter night though, silences
Are fine, put conversation to the sword
Wrap up real warm and turn on the heater
Quiet though, few in, a few chats here and there
A bit more of the condoc written, had
The chance to do more, but by four, no more
Could be borne, I was bored, so at half-four
I wound my way home, via Sainsburys
Yes sir, yes sir, two bags full but no more
But nothing that will help me with the freeze
Keep the door shut, don't want balcony breeze
Easing its way in, stay out there, I said
To the wind which I talk to, I can't bear
It on a winter night though, silences
Are fine, put conversation to the sword
Wrap up real warm and turn on the heater
3056 - Chiller thriller killer
A cold day, mostly wasted feeling ill
Thanks to last night's whisky Christmas present
Couldn't do anything, felt sick and killed
Time sitting on the sofa, ears attuned
To the football on the radio, and ground
My way through the afternoon, finally
Feeling able to eat at tea-time, sound
Constitution, didn't puke, the whisky
And Stella combination inside me
Inducing nausea. Despite the intense chill
I visited Nancy as I was meant
We had a good chat up there in Bury
(Nice chocs, by the way, those things tasted brill)
Now home again, sadly, the weekend's spent
Sun 28 Dec
Thanks to last night's whisky Christmas present
Couldn't do anything, felt sick and killed
Time sitting on the sofa, ears attuned
To the football on the radio, and ground
My way through the afternoon, finally
Feeling able to eat at tea-time, sound
Constitution, didn't puke, the whisky
And Stella combination inside me
Inducing nausea. Despite the intense chill
I visited Nancy as I was meant
We had a good chat up there in Bury
(Nice chocs, by the way, those things tasted brill)
Now home again, sadly, the weekend's spent
Sun 28 Dec
3055 - Veggie table
Last few hours at Mum's, went shopping for her
Before it rained, then taxi to station
Train to Liverpool, changed for Manchester
Popped into the flat, saw Pearl, Lou, Vee and
Then drove P and L to Wilmslow, the fun
Began as Josie joined us, then drove to
The Sanskruti in Fallowfield. Meal-time
It was a veggie place, I didn't know
When I booked it, but it was nice, and Jo
Enjoyed hers too. Back to flat of Vera
Where we played 'Articulate' - tempers ran
At times, but it was a laugh. Me and Lou
Beat the girls. Yay! Dropped Jo off, curly hair
Impressed us all! Now one night on my own...
Sat 27 Dec
Before it rained, then taxi to station
Train to Liverpool, changed for Manchester
Popped into the flat, saw Pearl, Lou, Vee and
Then drove P and L to Wilmslow, the fun
Began as Josie joined us, then drove to
The Sanskruti in Fallowfield. Meal-time
It was a veggie place, I didn't know
When I booked it, but it was nice, and Jo
Enjoyed hers too. Back to flat of Vera
Where we played 'Articulate' - tempers ran
At times, but it was a laugh. Me and Lou
Beat the girls. Yay! Dropped Jo off, curly hair
Impressed us all! Now one night on my own...
Sat 27 Dec
3054 - Dozy Boxing Day
This is a day late, I confess. Spent at
My mother's house in Greasby. Robin was
Here til 3pm, then he drove in that
Downpour which turned into a blizzard fast
Back to Lichfield for a pub gig. I spaced
Out a bit in the afternoon, think it
Was tiredness, but football updates helped pass
The time. Birmingham thumped 4-0, a great
Result for The Rams, anchored in third spot
Almost finished that novel - what was it?
Oh never mind, didn't give me a buzz
It's Viv Albertine's autobiog fate
Has decreed I read next, and now I've got
Two more good books as presents for Christmas!
Fri 26 Dec
My mother's house in Greasby. Robin was
Here til 3pm, then he drove in that
Downpour which turned into a blizzard fast
Back to Lichfield for a pub gig. I spaced
Out a bit in the afternoon, think it
Was tiredness, but football updates helped pass
The time. Birmingham thumped 4-0, a great
Result for The Rams, anchored in third spot
Almost finished that novel - what was it?
Oh never mind, didn't give me a buzz
It's Viv Albertine's autobiog fate
Has decreed I read next, and now I've got
Two more good books as presents for Christmas!
Fri 26 Dec
3053 - Yes, it really is Christmaaaaas!
It's Christmaaaaas! Noddy's driving Santa's sleigh
I was awake til half-past one last night
Messaging on Facebook, joking away
Preventing my own sleep by the phone light
Miraculously, slept til light was bright
The light of dawn, that is, the phone recharged
Was used pretty soon for pictures that might
Raise smiles online. Then into Robin's large
Hired car, up the road, to a hill with gorge-
ous views of the Mersey and of the Dee
Estuaries, up that hill the wind had bite
Since then we've eaten and talked, not yet played
Scrabble, but there's still time. Juice in the fridge
Sweets, biscuits, chocolates. One more? I just might
Thur 25 Dec
I was awake til half-past one last night
Messaging on Facebook, joking away
Preventing my own sleep by the phone light
Miraculously, slept til light was bright
The light of dawn, that is, the phone recharged
Was used pretty soon for pictures that might
Raise smiles online. Then into Robin's large
Hired car, up the road, to a hill with gorge-
ous views of the Mersey and of the Dee
Estuaries, up that hill the wind had bite
Since then we've eaten and talked, not yet played
Scrabble, but there's still time. Juice in the fridge
Sweets, biscuits, chocolates. One more? I just might
Thur 25 Dec
3052 - It's Christmaaaaaaas!
I must admit I forgot my sonnet
Yesterday (Christmas Eve), I'm a day late
I'll try and remember not to forget
Next time, but Christmas puts you in a state
I went to work, made my brain operate
As far as I could, with Christmas looming
Left early, got the train to Mum's, was great
To be with her and bro Rob, both catching
Up on news and what have you. Relaxing
In the evening, no drink for me, no wet
Alcohol, not even to celebrate
The time of year that's now fast approaching
I read for a while before going to bed
Then went on Facebook, late chat to create...
Wed 24 Dec
Yesterday (Christmas Eve), I'm a day late
I'll try and remember not to forget
Next time, but Christmas puts you in a state
I went to work, made my brain operate
As far as I could, with Christmas looming
Left early, got the train to Mum's, was great
To be with her and bro Rob, both catching
Up on news and what have you. Relaxing
In the evening, no drink for me, no wet
Alcohol, not even to celebrate
The time of year that's now fast approaching
I read for a while before going to bed
Then went on Facebook, late chat to create...
Wed 24 Dec
3051 - Ho ho ho hum!
Been at work today, I'm there tomorrow
Quite quiet in the office, people gone
Preparing their family Christmases, so
Busy and stressful they make it sound, on
They moan, although I think they think it's fun
Me, I've got a few decorations this
Time, unlike normal Yules of tradition
When I do very little. The Christmas
Meal's booked for three on Saturday, a nice
Indian place that does veggie food, that's so
Important for Pearl and Louis, they've been
Veggies since birth. Sanskruti's a good choice
It's on Mauldeth Road, Fallowfield. A go
At Christmas comedy tonight. Ho! Hum
Tue 23 Dec
Quite quiet in the office, people gone
Preparing their family Christmases, so
Busy and stressful they make it sound, on
They moan, although I think they think it's fun
Me, I've got a few decorations this
Time, unlike normal Yules of tradition
When I do very little. The Christmas
Meal's booked for three on Saturday, a nice
Indian place that does veggie food, that's so
Important for Pearl and Louis, they've been
Veggies since birth. Sanskruti's a good choice
It's on Mauldeth Road, Fallowfield. A go
At Christmas comedy tonight. Ho! Hum
Tue 23 Dec
Monday 22 December 2014
3050 - If reggae be de food of love
Just cooking dinner in the cool evening
It's cold out there on the old balcony
Glad I'm not out there in my coat shivering
Instead I'm digging some reggae CD
While cooking something nice, warm and tasty
This is the second disc from the set that
I played in the car. Barrington Levy
Is singing 'Too Experienced' - and what
A different version to Jackie Edwards
Next, Shaggy, 'Oh Carolina' will bring
Back the early 90s for you and me
A few tracks further on it's Eddy Grant
Not to mention classic Junior Murvin
And last, Sophia G's Girlie Girlie
It's cold out there on the old balcony
Glad I'm not out there in my coat shivering
Instead I'm digging some reggae CD
While cooking something nice, warm and tasty
This is the second disc from the set that
I played in the car. Barrington Levy
Is singing 'Too Experienced' - and what
A different version to Jackie Edwards
Next, Shaggy, 'Oh Carolina' will bring
Back the early 90s for you and me
A few tracks further on it's Eddy Grant
Not to mention classic Junior Murvin
And last, Sophia G's Girlie Girlie
Sunday 21 December 2014
3049 - You are my sunshine
This is the shortest day of the whole year
A day I like even though it's horrid
And dark, because you know the time's now near
When it'll get lighter again, take heed
Of this change for the better. In your bed
You'll see a slow earlier lightening
Maybe that's not in itself all that good
If that causes earlier awakening
I don't like darkness except for sleeping
Common sense says that's a time to be clear
Of danger and cold, home comforts enjoyed
Maybe it can be warmed with a short fling
Though that's hard for me to do without tears
So useless with people, easily led
A day I like even though it's horrid
And dark, because you know the time's now near
When it'll get lighter again, take heed
Of this change for the better. In your bed
You'll see a slow earlier lightening
Maybe that's not in itself all that good
If that causes earlier awakening
I don't like darkness except for sleeping
Common sense says that's a time to be clear
Of danger and cold, home comforts enjoyed
Maybe it can be warmed with a short fling
Though that's hard for me to do without tears
So useless with people, easily led
Saturday 20 December 2014
3048 - Time is a drag
Not quite sure what to do tonight. Wanted
To play guitar, but Louis' gone to bed
So it would be selfish, some might have said
To do that which I had contemplated
So I'll find something else to do instead
At least there's no need for booze in my head
Although the time is dragging now, I've fed
Myself well, something I once neglected
When I had beer and fags I'd collected
Mind you, writing about this makes me dread
That I might start wanting it. I have read
To the end 'The Land of Green Plums.' I sped
Through it last night, this morning completed
It, and chose new listening tracks. Excited!
To play guitar, but Louis' gone to bed
So it would be selfish, some might have said
To do that which I had contemplated
So I'll find something else to do instead
At least there's no need for booze in my head
Although the time is dragging now, I've fed
Myself well, something I once neglected
When I had beer and fags I'd collected
Mind you, writing about this makes me dread
That I might start wanting it. I have read
To the end 'The Land of Green Plums.' I sped
Through it last night, this morning completed
It, and chose new listening tracks. Excited!
Friday 19 December 2014
3047 - No whisky bravo
Just four hours' sleep last night, I rose early
Rather than listening to the radio
In bed and drifting back to sleep, maybe
Got up at 5:20 and said hello
To Lou who was watching the Daily Show
On his laptop, he sure got a surprise
To see me come in the room and then go
For a shower. Didn't get soap in my eyes
At work by 7:30. No real cries
Of amazement from others, shockingly
Despite my tiredness, worked hard like a pro
It was a time to say Christmas bye-byes
To some at least. For me there's no whisky
This year, which is weird but good. Humbug? No!
Rather than listening to the radio
In bed and drifting back to sleep, maybe
Got up at 5:20 and said hello
To Lou who was watching the Daily Show
On his laptop, he sure got a surprise
To see me come in the room and then go
For a shower. Didn't get soap in my eyes
At work by 7:30. No real cries
Of amazement from others, shockingly
Despite my tiredness, worked hard like a pro
It was a time to say Christmas bye-byes
To some at least. For me there's no whisky
This year, which is weird but good. Humbug? No!
Thursday 18 December 2014
3046 - Switch off switch on
Not much on TV, a chance then to write
But no, I think once more I'll play guitar
Because it's what I want, to get it right
To play fast solos, made up as they are
Now I'm bass, now lead, now rhythm player
But I'm not there yet, need to find a way
Of playing, in my own style, mingling the
Three types of playing, a one-man display
That impresses them, but's easy to play
So easy I can sing too, with spirit
And soul expression. But should just aim for
A simple rhythmic style while singing,stay
Within the possible, then take to flight
When mouth and mind are freed up and can soar
But no, I think once more I'll play guitar
Because it's what I want, to get it right
To play fast solos, made up as they are
Now I'm bass, now lead, now rhythm player
But I'm not there yet, need to find a way
Of playing, in my own style, mingling the
Three types of playing, a one-man display
That impresses them, but's easy to play
So easy I can sing too, with spirit
And soul expression. But should just aim for
A simple rhythmic style while singing,stay
Within the possible, then take to flight
When mouth and mind are freed up and can soar
Wednesday 17 December 2014
3045 - Choosing losing boozing
The TV's got turned off cos it's going on
About Christmas, and 'Santa' and nonsense
Like that. I'm pleased to say that I have done
A good job of avoiding it, and hence
Will continue to. Especially incensed
By stupid jingly-jangly musical
Bells and balls, hate it all, not on the fence
On this one. I'm not in consumer thrall
Au contraire! (Why French? There's less syllables)
I'm saving in December! No lies spun
No web of deceit. I've been saving since
I quit the booze. Though mad fun's had to fall
(Like Abba's loser), I'm getting more strong
Now to find REAL fun, and at less expense!
About Christmas, and 'Santa' and nonsense
Like that. I'm pleased to say that I have done
A good job of avoiding it, and hence
Will continue to. Especially incensed
By stupid jingly-jangly musical
Bells and balls, hate it all, not on the fence
On this one. I'm not in consumer thrall
Au contraire! (Why French? There's less syllables)
I'm saving in December! No lies spun
No web of deceit. I've been saving since
I quit the booze. Though mad fun's had to fall
(Like Abba's loser), I'm getting more strong
Now to find REAL fun, and at less expense!
Tuesday 16 December 2014
3044 - Ram Raiders in Chelsea
Derby have just kicked off against Chelsea
In the Capital One Cup (the League Cup)
Listening to that match as I type quickly
Not spending too long pondering, but stop
Towards the end of each line, coming up
With a suitable rhyme. The Rams attack!
No - they've messed it up. They've been at the top
Of the Championship (Div 2), but slipped back
Slightly this month - against Leeds they were slack
And at 'Boro could have lost heavily
But kept it to a two-goal loss. We'll flop
Against the UK's top team now, odds stacked
In the Blues' favour with their quality
Come on the Rams - keep trying 'til you drop!
In the Capital One Cup (the League Cup)
Listening to that match as I type quickly
Not spending too long pondering, but stop
Towards the end of each line, coming up
With a suitable rhyme. The Rams attack!
No - they've messed it up. They've been at the top
Of the Championship (Div 2), but slipped back
Slightly this month - against Leeds they were slack
And at 'Boro could have lost heavily
But kept it to a two-goal loss. We'll flop
Against the UK's top team now, odds stacked
In the Blues' favour with their quality
Come on the Rams - keep trying 'til you drop!
Monday 15 December 2014
3043 - Buzz saw doctors
Left-handed buzz, post-guitar sessioning
Playing these days itself is a real buzz
But I don't play each day would be pushing
It in terms of hand health, mite dangerous
Got to be careful, don't want arthritis
But I play so fast these days, work the joints
In my left wrist and my left-hand fingers
Zooming all over the fretboard. Yet once
Back when I lived in Stockport, strained my brains
Trying to memorise positioning
By note names on the guitar fret - pointless
The way my mind works, it falls down and grunts
When memorising words or info in
Quick time. No, music has to be thoughtless
Playing these days itself is a real buzz
But I don't play each day would be pushing
It in terms of hand health, mite dangerous
Got to be careful, don't want arthritis
But I play so fast these days, work the joints
In my left wrist and my left-hand fingers
Zooming all over the fretboard. Yet once
Back when I lived in Stockport, strained my brains
Trying to memorise positioning
By note names on the guitar fret - pointless
The way my mind works, it falls down and grunts
When memorising words or info in
Quick time. No, music has to be thoughtless
Sunday 14 December 2014
3042 - The lamb in winter
Sunday Sunday at home today Sunday
Think there should be no punctuation now
I have begun this unorthodox way
Its OK if you are enough highbrow
A bit ee cummings Im an off show
Its cold in winter thats a big surprise
Not I should say like the size of a cow
Although it could be a baby cow size
Never assume words are true could be lies
All these are are pastimes to pass time hey
Best to pass time easily cant somehow
Motivate to activate pressurise
Myself to get big things done just the way
Ive always been can I ever change though
Think there should be no punctuation now
I have begun this unorthodox way
Its OK if you are enough highbrow
A bit ee cummings Im an off show
Its cold in winter thats a big surprise
Not I should say like the size of a cow
Although it could be a baby cow size
Never assume words are true could be lies
All these are are pastimes to pass time hey
Best to pass time easily cant somehow
Motivate to activate pressurise
Myself to get big things done just the way
Ive always been can I ever change though
Saturday 13 December 2014
3041 - Tram o'shanter
A chilly day but I was warmly dressed
Met Josie at her house, then Manchester
As usual. And, as usual, the dest-
ination was Old T, United's lair
No match on, just scanning the usual fare
In the Reds'shop, though this time I bought nowt
For her. We walked to the Quays. Harvester
Was where we dined, but it needs sorting out
I may have been overcharged by about
Ten quid. May walk there tomorrow, may rest
Instead and forget about it - see where
Fate takes me, with a whimper or a shout
Any road, it's so parky, need a vest
And thermals, hot water bottle, good sir
Tram o'shanter simply because we travel to Old Trafford by tram!
Met Josie at her house, then Manchester
As usual. And, as usual, the dest-
ination was Old T, United's lair
No match on, just scanning the usual fare
In the Reds'shop, though this time I bought nowt
For her. We walked to the Quays. Harvester
Was where we dined, but it needs sorting out
I may have been overcharged by about
Ten quid. May walk there tomorrow, may rest
Instead and forget about it - see where
Fate takes me, with a whimper or a shout
Any road, it's so parky, need a vest
And thermals, hot water bottle, good sir
Tram o'shanter simply because we travel to Old Trafford by tram!
Friday 12 December 2014
3040 - Just about alright now!
Wow. Despite everything, the Christmas do
Came and went with me keeping myself dry
All those hours, others knocking back wine, you
Also see them with pints, they all get high
While you don't, and you're tired, last night you'd lie
In bed listening to neighbours' noise through wall
I heard them singing 'Alright Now' though I
Didn't recognise it at first. The wail
Of a student voice really couldn't fail
To wake me up and keep me awake through
Several hours of the morning. Then apply
A few hours at work, then a long work meal
Pleasant enough, but long, then a disco
And karaoke. Long hard victory!
Came and went with me keeping myself dry
All those hours, others knocking back wine, you
Also see them with pints, they all get high
While you don't, and you're tired, last night you'd lie
In bed listening to neighbours' noise through wall
I heard them singing 'Alright Now' though I
Didn't recognise it at first. The wail
Of a student voice really couldn't fail
To wake me up and keep me awake through
Several hours of the morning. Then apply
A few hours at work, then a long work meal
Pleasant enough, but long, then a disco
And karaoke. Long hard victory!
Thursday 11 December 2014
3039 - Cold comfort flat
Jeez, hope this cold weather won't last too long
Though I suspect it may last all winter
Just what we don't need, big bills to prolong
The general austerity. Guess the poor
Will either freeze or go bankrupt this year
Food banks, that's another 'big issue' now
Luckily, I don't yet need a voucher
To get free handouts of food, if I plough
This work furrow as I'm doing, allow
Myself to pay off debts, I can belong
With the somewhat-better-off, if not the
Decidedly-better-off, and highbrow
Nature means I can always go along
Cheaply, reading, walking, playing guitar
Though I suspect it may last all winter
Just what we don't need, big bills to prolong
The general austerity. Guess the poor
Will either freeze or go bankrupt this year
Food banks, that's another 'big issue' now
Luckily, I don't yet need a voucher
To get free handouts of food, if I plough
This work furrow as I'm doing, allow
Myself to pay off debts, I can belong
With the somewhat-better-off, if not the
Decidedly-better-off, and highbrow
Nature means I can always go along
Cheaply, reading, walking, playing guitar
Wednesday 10 December 2014
3038 - Roma-loma-ding-dong
I'm looking forward to an evening in
Which will be spent on Spotify, firstly
And then when Louis gets up (it's evening
But he's asleep) we will then watch City
Attempt to win against Roma and the
Odds in the Champions League. Too cold and wet
To collect Claire's Christmas parcel for Josie
Hopefully tomorrow evening I'll get
It. Need to buy i-Tunes vouchers, not yet
Been to Tesco. They're for Lewis, cousin
Of my three kids Josie, Pearl and Louis
Back to last night, although I don't regret
Ad-libbing with Dermot, need to refine
The act a bit to make more comedy
Which will be spent on Spotify, firstly
And then when Louis gets up (it's evening
But he's asleep) we will then watch City
Attempt to win against Roma and the
Odds in the Champions League. Too cold and wet
To collect Claire's Christmas parcel for Josie
Hopefully tomorrow evening I'll get
It. Need to buy i-Tunes vouchers, not yet
Been to Tesco. They're for Lewis, cousin
Of my three kids Josie, Pearl and Louis
Back to last night, although I don't regret
Ad-libbing with Dermot, need to refine
The act a bit to make more comedy
Tuesday 9 December 2014
3037 - Drunk as a sober skunk
A rainy day, a cat and a dog day
Bad weather in Manchester shock, oh my!
First time in a month, comedy, hurray
Maintained, while doing that, my state of dry
I.e. no beer for me, though Dermot tried
To knock back Guinness, only two pints, mind
Not like the old days, five or six pints plied
And necked on a long session. Now we're kind
To wallets and bodies. Not hard to find
Non-alcoholic beer that tastes OK
Today it was Bavaria, nice to try
I've got a trip there in the spring, I've lined
Up Munich as one stop, on holiday
Next spring, when I'll drink real beer, me oh my!
Bad weather in Manchester shock, oh my!
First time in a month, comedy, hurray
Maintained, while doing that, my state of dry
I.e. no beer for me, though Dermot tried
To knock back Guinness, only two pints, mind
Not like the old days, five or six pints plied
And necked on a long session. Now we're kind
To wallets and bodies. Not hard to find
Non-alcoholic beer that tastes OK
Today it was Bavaria, nice to try
I've got a trip there in the spring, I've lined
Up Munich as one stop, on holiday
Next spring, when I'll drink real beer, me oh my!
Monday 8 December 2014
3036 - Sounds rebound
At work this morning our team moved en masse
To different desks. That was quite exciting
At lunchtime I got a haircut at last
It's like my haircuts of old, some shaving
Around the neck and ears. Feels like going
Back in time... After work, went to see Vee
She's perking up after a depressing
Interlude. She fixed my phone cleverly
Even the sound's come back - I'm so happy
Good news then, I won't have to splash the cash
Upgrading, paying double, though thinking
An i-Phone would be nice. Maybe July
I'll get one then when my contract's up. That's
All the news from me today. I'm smiling!
To different desks. That was quite exciting
At lunchtime I got a haircut at last
It's like my haircuts of old, some shaving
Around the neck and ears. Feels like going
Back in time... After work, went to see Vee
She's perking up after a depressing
Interlude. She fixed my phone cleverly
Even the sound's come back - I'm so happy
Good news then, I won't have to splash the cash
Upgrading, paying double, though thinking
An i-Phone would be nice. Maybe July
I'll get one then when my contract's up. That's
All the news from me today. I'm smiling!
Sunday 7 December 2014
3035 - No trouble
A cold day at home, glad I'm not out there
Got a film to watch, it's about Keith Moon
So might put that on. Is it a drama
Or documentary? Well, I'll find out soon
Could be a lead zeppelin, punctured balloon
Or maybe dramatic, like the man's life
Unlike Moon, I'm well on the bandwagon
I mean I'm off the loopy juice, I'm safe
From drunkenness, even though without wife
Or is that more likely with wife? Don't care
As long as I'm succeeding with this boon
Enjoying this lack of trouble and strife
No cause to blot it out, no, now I stare
At and appreciate it, grin like a loon
Got a film to watch, it's about Keith Moon
So might put that on. Is it a drama
Or documentary? Well, I'll find out soon
Could be a lead zeppelin, punctured balloon
Or maybe dramatic, like the man's life
Unlike Moon, I'm well on the bandwagon
I mean I'm off the loopy juice, I'm safe
From drunkenness, even though without wife
Or is that more likely with wife? Don't care
As long as I'm succeeding with this boon
Enjoying this lack of trouble and strife
No cause to blot it out, no, now I stare
At and appreciate it, grin like a loon
Saturday 6 December 2014
3034 - Santa's a Red Devil
A chilly day but not too cold. Again
(Yet again) Jo wanted to go to Old
Trafford, and we did, and again I spent
On her while there, but I shouldn't self-scold
It was a Christmas present I was sold
Which was a United away shirt, dark
Blue, with Di Maria on the back. A bold
Move then by Jo which paid off, played off park
I was by her tactics! Still, we had a lark
I looked for the trainers I saw within
Sports Direct in Salford last night, but failed
To find them in town. Think I'll have to walk
Around in shoes til January, tattoos ain't
Affordable now either - they're on hold
(Yet again) Jo wanted to go to Old
Trafford, and we did, and again I spent
On her while there, but I shouldn't self-scold
It was a Christmas present I was sold
Which was a United away shirt, dark
Blue, with Di Maria on the back. A bold
Move then by Jo which paid off, played off park
I was by her tactics! Still, we had a lark
I looked for the trainers I saw within
Sports Direct in Salford last night, but failed
To find them in town. Think I'll have to walk
Around in shoes til January, tattoos ain't
Affordable now either - they're on hold
Friday 5 December 2014
3033 - Zing went the strings of my guitar
Just had a blistering guitar session
In which largely I managed not to look
It's quite easy when you practice, skates on
Ice, riding bikes, swimming just like a duck
Or anything really, fish on a hook
It's all possible with regular graft
But still got some way to go til I pluck
The strings and courage to test my stagecraft
Til then it remains stagefright, and my pact
With myself's to keep practising alone
It's fun anyway, no pressure, a track
Playing in the background, my mind abstract
Free of all words and thoughts, I strum along
Or play lead or bass, rarely I get stuck
In which largely I managed not to look
It's quite easy when you practice, skates on
Ice, riding bikes, swimming just like a duck
Or anything really, fish on a hook
It's all possible with regular graft
But still got some way to go til I pluck
The strings and courage to test my stagecraft
Til then it remains stagefright, and my pact
With myself's to keep practising alone
It's fun anyway, no pressure, a track
Playing in the background, my mind abstract
Free of all words and thoughts, I strum along
Or play lead or bass, rarely I get stuck
Thursday 4 December 2014
3032 - Food isn't rude
I fancy a late-night snack, yes I do
I'll see what there is, don't think I've got much
I don't buy snacks, no biscuits, cakes, a few
Things, maybe a bit of cheese I could munch
Wait, I've got some tinned salmon yet untouched
So that could be the answer what to eat
Got Ryvita if it comes to the crunch
With some Marmite on, that would taste complete
So pleased there's some food here, I want to bleat
Like an ecstatic sheep in morning dew
A late night snack is more than just a crutch
It's enough to make you snug in your sheet
When you go content to bed and then you
Drift away happy and healthy and such
I'll see what there is, don't think I've got much
I don't buy snacks, no biscuits, cakes, a few
Things, maybe a bit of cheese I could munch
Wait, I've got some tinned salmon yet untouched
So that could be the answer what to eat
Got Ryvita if it comes to the crunch
With some Marmite on, that would taste complete
So pleased there's some food here, I want to bleat
Like an ecstatic sheep in morning dew
A late night snack is more than just a crutch
It's enough to make you snug in your sheet
When you go content to bed and then you
Drift away happy and healthy and such
Wednesday 3 December 2014
3031 - Cold (it's)
Feel wide awake, and that's even despite
A day of presentations. Goes to show
That sometimes, if you don't stay up all night
Almost anything can be OK, so
That encourages me, I didn't slow
Or drop off to sleep as I sat and watched
Clear sky last night, a touch of frost. To go
Out last night wasn't appealing, and scotched
Plans to go out tonight too. There's a match
On (Sunderland v City) that I might
Watch with Louis. Before that, fingers flow
On the guitar for an hour or so, catch
The wind through the strings on its quick light flight
And edge that bit closer to goodness knows
A day of presentations. Goes to show
That sometimes, if you don't stay up all night
Almost anything can be OK, so
That encourages me, I didn't slow
Or drop off to sleep as I sat and watched
Clear sky last night, a touch of frost. To go
Out last night wasn't appealing, and scotched
Plans to go out tonight too. There's a match
On (Sunderland v City) that I might
Watch with Louis. Before that, fingers flow
On the guitar for an hour or so, catch
The wind through the strings on its quick light flight
And edge that bit closer to goodness knows
Tuesday 2 December 2014
3030 - Mind your language
Although it's Word War One, think I'll stay in
And watch a game with Louis, not done that
In a while, plus it's cold outside, shiv'rin'
Out there's not a prospect that flats my bat
Oh God, I think before long I'll have shat
Got the urge to evacuate bowels
Never quite sure when I write words like that
You know, bowels, one or two syllables?
Soon I'll wipe my bottom with paper towels
Hope this ain't too gross, hope you're not eatin'
This last week's seen two anti-Jewish spats
Or storms in teacups maybe, two big fools
From the football world, Balotelli and
Whelan, both of them are a pair of klutz
And watch a game with Louis, not done that
In a while, plus it's cold outside, shiv'rin'
Out there's not a prospect that flats my bat
Oh God, I think before long I'll have shat
Got the urge to evacuate bowels
Never quite sure when I write words like that
You know, bowels, one or two syllables?
Soon I'll wipe my bottom with paper towels
Hope this ain't too gross, hope you're not eatin'
This last week's seen two anti-Jewish spats
Or storms in teacups maybe, two big fools
From the football world, Balotelli and
Whelan, both of them are a pair of klutz
Monday 1 December 2014
3029 - Falling down and rising up
Come Dine With Me this week's in Manchester
I might see a face I know - I hope so
There's a Dom. I know two, though one's Cheshire
Wait - there they all are, and the answer's no
I don't know this Dom. 'Tracksuit Dom,' you know!
It looks as though it will be amusing
Forgot to wear a belt today, oh no!
When I got to work, trousers were slipping
A bit too far down! Will be correcting
That mistake tomorrow, so when I'm there
My pants won't fall when I get up and go
Meanwhile, today I saw the opening
Of the new multi-storey. Took picture
Or two of Father Christmas outside. Ho!
I might see a face I know - I hope so
There's a Dom. I know two, though one's Cheshire
Wait - there they all are, and the answer's no
I don't know this Dom. 'Tracksuit Dom,' you know!
It looks as though it will be amusing
Forgot to wear a belt today, oh no!
When I got to work, trousers were slipping
A bit too far down! Will be correcting
That mistake tomorrow, so when I'm there
My pants won't fall when I get up and go
Meanwhile, today I saw the opening
Of the new multi-storey. Took picture
Or two of Father Christmas outside. Ho!
Sunday 30 November 2014
3028 - Stud u like
Popped home to drop off Jo's new football boots
Half of her Christmas present (a onesie's
The other half) and also write my thoughts
For the day, tossing off sonnets with ease
As I've done since Sept 2006
When this is done it'll be time to dash
Out again, though my tummy's had its fix
Already, at the Arndale cafe, mash
And mince (cottage pie). Spent most of the cash
From Lou's November rent, lasted throughout
The month, spent so little, just saved moneys
Did go out several times, had the odd bash
But no splurges of dosh. No, lots of loot
And hope to keep it that way, if you please!
Half of her Christmas present (a onesie's
The other half) and also write my thoughts
For the day, tossing off sonnets with ease
As I've done since Sept 2006
When this is done it'll be time to dash
Out again, though my tummy's had its fix
Already, at the Arndale cafe, mash
And mince (cottage pie). Spent most of the cash
From Lou's November rent, lasted throughout
The month, spent so little, just saved moneys
Did go out several times, had the odd bash
But no splurges of dosh. No, lots of loot
And hope to keep it that way, if you please!
Saturday 29 November 2014
3027 - Rams-are-leaders-ding-dong
Enjoying the quiet life as autumn soon
Turns to winter; November, December
Loads in my bank account, far from ruin
If I keep this up! Derby still hold their
Top spot in the Championship despite a
Loss at Leeds I nearly saw in person
But neither Louis nor Josie were here
To go with, and we lost, so there. Our run
Despite our stutters goes reliably on
Helped by regular luck, other teams doing
Us favours by failing to be winners
When it matters. Not done much - all I've done
Is read my pop book, covering eighties tunes
This book's given me many songs to hear
Turns to winter; November, December
Loads in my bank account, far from ruin
If I keep this up! Derby still hold their
Top spot in the Championship despite a
Loss at Leeds I nearly saw in person
But neither Louis nor Josie were here
To go with, and we lost, so there. Our run
Despite our stutters goes reliably on
Helped by regular luck, other teams doing
Us favours by failing to be winners
When it matters. Not done much - all I've done
Is read my pop book, covering eighties tunes
This book's given me many songs to hear
Friday 28 November 2014
3026 - Fave rave
Some fun posts on Twitter and Facebook, yeah
After writing this, I will play guitar
Then read my book of pop music, nearer
And nearer the eighties I get. Writer
Thinks the early eighties were the best years
Largely, I reckon, because of his age
I'm slightly older and my top era
Would be the late 70s, just a page
In time before his fave, when all the rage
Was post-punk, new wave, disco, whatever...
Wait! Reggae, two-tone, late era rock stars
It had it all. But there was good tuneage
Also in the early eighties, for sure
But since then it's gradually got poorer
After writing this, I will play guitar
Then read my book of pop music, nearer
And nearer the eighties I get. Writer
Thinks the early eighties were the best years
Largely, I reckon, because of his age
I'm slightly older and my top era
Would be the late 70s, just a page
In time before his fave, when all the rage
Was post-punk, new wave, disco, whatever...
Wait! Reggae, two-tone, late era rock stars
It had it all. But there was good tuneage
Also in the early eighties, for sure
But since then it's gradually got poorer
Thursday 27 November 2014
3025 - Health and savings
A fun talk after work in the Library
Called Manchester Drunk n Sober, no less
Unusual distraction, completely free
Could've gone for a drink but just not arsed
Without beer those things seem easy to pass
And so straight home, exercised, ate some grub
Watching some football, as usual it's Spurs
On a Thursday, minor game in Europe
Sitting here, for company a teacup
Or maybe a mug, but it contains tea
The night's not quite over, but I've impressed
Myself behaving myself, keeping up
The health and savings regime, with Louis
Gone to London to stay for a few days
Called Manchester Drunk n Sober, no less
Unusual distraction, completely free
Could've gone for a drink but just not arsed
Without beer those things seem easy to pass
And so straight home, exercised, ate some grub
Watching some football, as usual it's Spurs
On a Thursday, minor game in Europe
Sitting here, for company a teacup
Or maybe a mug, but it contains tea
The night's not quite over, but I've impressed
Myself behaving myself, keeping up
The health and savings regime, with Louis
Gone to London to stay for a few days
3024 - To beer or not to beer
Long day at work, then unexpectedly
Got an invite out, Dermot has returned
From China and Taiwan. Allegedly
He had a great time, and respect is earned
If he really did do all that, he burned
The candle at both ends. Instead of beer
He drank tea in Taiwan, said that he learned
To enjoy that scene more, and folk appeared
And were happy to talk. The Castle's weird
Totally sober, but it's now easy
To not drink beer in pubs. Again I'll turn
Away from the pumps tomorrow, be a
Bystander to the consumption when we
Meet at the Waterhouse when work is done
About Wed 26 November
Got an invite out, Dermot has returned
From China and Taiwan. Allegedly
He had a great time, and respect is earned
If he really did do all that, he burned
The candle at both ends. Instead of beer
He drank tea in Taiwan, said that he learned
To enjoy that scene more, and folk appeared
And were happy to talk. The Castle's weird
Totally sober, but it's now easy
To not drink beer in pubs. Again I'll turn
Away from the pumps tomorrow, be a
Bystander to the consumption when we
Meet at the Waterhouse when work is done
About Wed 26 November
Tuesday 25 November 2014
3023 - Green Day in Salford
A fun night out at The Crescent, Salford
A pub I've not been in for some time now
Did a few gags, all memorised - that's good
Nice to know sometimes my mind works, you know
And then read a couple of poems, so
Combined the two in ten minutes, the last
And top slot of the night. The night may grow
Which is fitting cos they're the Greens, and sussed
About politics which is good, a must-
Vote option far as I'm concerned. I scored
A hit, I hope, met Red who hosts a show
Each Monday at Sandbar. Don't let the dust
Settle! He described it and said he would
Consider me for a slot there, so wow
A pub I've not been in for some time now
Did a few gags, all memorised - that's good
Nice to know sometimes my mind works, you know
And then read a couple of poems, so
Combined the two in ten minutes, the last
And top slot of the night. The night may grow
Which is fitting cos they're the Greens, and sussed
About politics which is good, a must-
Vote option far as I'm concerned. I scored
A hit, I hope, met Red who hosts a show
Each Monday at Sandbar. Don't let the dust
Settle! He described it and said he would
Consider me for a slot there, so wow
Monday 24 November 2014
3022 - Virtuous circle
Just exercised, woo-hoo, gives such a sense
Of pride and well-being, doing the right thing
As time goes on I'm seeing me less tense
About opportunities of doing
My will power's increasing as my drinking
Becomes history and I need to fill
Time differently, better, more interesting
Is all that's around, and more time to kill
Which in a virtuous circle means I will
Do more of what's right and ego intends
And less time-wasting. Not too much reading
Must get the level right, or books might spill
Over into 'doing' time, a defence
Against decisive action, achieving
Of pride and well-being, doing the right thing
As time goes on I'm seeing me less tense
About opportunities of doing
My will power's increasing as my drinking
Becomes history and I need to fill
Time differently, better, more interesting
Is all that's around, and more time to kill
Which in a virtuous circle means I will
Do more of what's right and ego intends
And less time-wasting. Not too much reading
Must get the level right, or books might spill
Over into 'doing' time, a defence
Against decisive action, achieving
Sunday 23 November 2014
3021 - Play my cards right
Been on a free train ride down to Cheshire
And back, collected my card from the pub
That I left there last night when we retired
Cos Jo felt a bit ill and we gave up
On watching Arsenal / United, stopped
Sitting in that hot crowded place, headed
Back to hers, then I headed back, a top
Day but unaware til later, then dread
As I realised I was without my card
But then I felt calm, no need to perspire
They'd keep it safe til tomorrow. I hopped
There on a priceless ride, as I just said
Earlier today I worked out what to tire
Them with this Tuesday - it won't be a flop!
And back, collected my card from the pub
That I left there last night when we retired
Cos Jo felt a bit ill and we gave up
On watching Arsenal / United, stopped
Sitting in that hot crowded place, headed
Back to hers, then I headed back, a top
Day but unaware til later, then dread
As I realised I was without my card
But then I felt calm, no need to perspire
They'd keep it safe til tomorrow. I hopped
There on a priceless ride, as I just said
Earlier today I worked out what to tire
Them with this Tuesday - it won't be a flop!
Saturday 22 November 2014
3020 - Ball to face
Saturday is seeing Jo day and we
Went shopping in Stockport, mainly Primark
Where I got brown shoes and two jeans, forty
Quid only, then Jo looked for sports shoes, make
Important of course, and what made its mark
Most was the make of CR7 - that's
Cristiano Ronaldo's football boot, dark
Background with glittery finish, such glitz!
It may form part of her Christmas presents
Along with last week's United onesie
It's exciting, I almost want to bark!
Accident in Decathlon - our ball hits
A woman in the face, glasses fall free
To the floor, she complained, she was hard work!
Went shopping in Stockport, mainly Primark
Where I got brown shoes and two jeans, forty
Quid only, then Jo looked for sports shoes, make
Important of course, and what made its mark
Most was the make of CR7 - that's
Cristiano Ronaldo's football boot, dark
Background with glittery finish, such glitz!
It may form part of her Christmas presents
Along with last week's United onesie
It's exciting, I almost want to bark!
Accident in Decathlon - our ball hits
A woman in the face, glasses fall free
To the floor, she complained, she was hard work!
Friday 21 November 2014
3019 - Pop a doodle doo
The heat is on - that's a dramatic start
But it simply means that the heat is on
Literally in the flat. Shivers, depart!
Think tonight I'll just read my big book, fun
Indeed, a great tome on pop, lots of tune
References to check out on Spotify
Many of which are new to me, a boon
If ever there was one, big fish to fry
And then pour the contents real carefully
Into my ears. Louis gave me a start
When I went in his room to turn heat on
There he was asleep in bed. Wondered why
Then remembered he had stayed up til eight
Must have been watching the by-election
But it simply means that the heat is on
Literally in the flat. Shivers, depart!
Think tonight I'll just read my big book, fun
Indeed, a great tome on pop, lots of tune
References to check out on Spotify
Many of which are new to me, a boon
If ever there was one, big fish to fry
And then pour the contents real carefully
Into my ears. Louis gave me a start
When I went in his room to turn heat on
There he was asleep in bed. Wondered why
Then remembered he had stayed up til eight
Must have been watching the by-election
Thursday 20 November 2014
3018 - Dreams in a cold climate
Trying to write, but what to write about?
What's happened today, boring work day, see
The difficulty? Was tired, went without
Good night's sleep, too cold to doze off quickly
Took me til almost two to finally
Check out of Tuesday and into dreamland
Tried hard at work to be a busy bee
One worthy of Manchester's symbol found
In and around the Town Hall, and around
My arm in tattoo form too, looks quite cute
Beethoven's Eighth is playing now slowly
But now it's the last movement, and I'm bound
To finish this sonnet and hit the fret-
board of guitar for an hour, then TV!
What's happened today, boring work day, see
The difficulty? Was tired, went without
Good night's sleep, too cold to doze off quickly
Took me til almost two to finally
Check out of Tuesday and into dreamland
Tried hard at work to be a busy bee
One worthy of Manchester's symbol found
In and around the Town Hall, and around
My arm in tattoo form too, looks quite cute
Beethoven's Eighth is playing now slowly
But now it's the last movement, and I'm bound
To finish this sonnet and hit the fret-
board of guitar for an hour, then TV!
Wednesday 19 November 2014
3017 - Maybe tomorrow
I should be at the library, writing
But when I left the office, I turned right
Out of habit, homeward route following
And unfortunately realised too late
Maybe tomorrow I'll go there about
Five, maybe sooner, after Building Our
Future (don't ask!), and then maybe I'll write
Some poetry or comedy, some more
Short stories (what became of them?), and / or
Even try making music - exciting
If I can use some software, I'll be quite
Pleased with that, able to arrange and score
It's vital I get in a new routine
Of creating, not sitting in each night
But when I left the office, I turned right
Out of habit, homeward route following
And unfortunately realised too late
Maybe tomorrow I'll go there about
Five, maybe sooner, after Building Our
Future (don't ask!), and then maybe I'll write
Some poetry or comedy, some more
Short stories (what became of them?), and / or
Even try making music - exciting
If I can use some software, I'll be quite
Pleased with that, able to arrange and score
It's vital I get in a new routine
Of creating, not sitting in each night
Tuesday 18 November 2014
3016 - Roy Hodgson's white and white army!
Did exercises after work today
Pleased about getting back in shape, oh yes
Then a good guitar session, like to play
As I get better and better, confess
I wonder though if I could ever say
I can play live, and play well, be a guest
On a bill. Probably not, anyway
Not if the past is a guide. Is that just
Negative, though? There's been the odd good day
Times when it went well, and of course when pushed
On stage, the nerves take over. There's no grey
Only black (bad) and white (good), saved or lost
After my practice, watched England away
And they won in Glasgow. Scots, be impressed!
Pleased about getting back in shape, oh yes
Then a good guitar session, like to play
As I get better and better, confess
I wonder though if I could ever say
I can play live, and play well, be a guest
On a bill. Probably not, anyway
Not if the past is a guide. Is that just
Negative, though? There's been the odd good day
Times when it went well, and of course when pushed
On stage, the nerves take over. There's no grey
Only black (bad) and white (good), saved or lost
After my practice, watched England away
And they won in Glasgow. Scots, be impressed!
Monday 17 November 2014
3015 - Boom bang a bang
So tired today, below me or to side
A neighbour with the loudest boots is here
He or she (think it's he) started to stride
Noisily around, stomping on their floor
In the middle of Saturday night, for
Long enough to threaten my beauty sleep
And now this morning, the same din once more
Woke me around seven, I heard him keep
Not only stomping but bang, crash and bleep
(Rude words in my head). No way could I hide
Under the covers from this, guard my ears
And so, only six hours of precious kip
Under my pillow, I lay there and tried
To drop off again, but few dreams appeared
A neighbour with the loudest boots is here
He or she (think it's he) started to stride
Noisily around, stomping on their floor
In the middle of Saturday night, for
Long enough to threaten my beauty sleep
And now this morning, the same din once more
Woke me around seven, I heard him keep
Not only stomping but bang, crash and bleep
(Rude words in my head). No way could I hide
Under the covers from this, guard my ears
And so, only six hours of precious kip
Under my pillow, I lay there and tried
To drop off again, but few dreams appeared
Sunday 16 November 2014
3014 - Milk but no alcohol
I'm chillin' out on Sunday in my pad
Tickin' off all the boxes, spendin' nowt
Listenin' to hot music, that's never bad
Spiritual healin' makes you jump n' shout
Fire those water pistols at the dumb crowd
Played guitar, now some punk classics are on
It's fun to have that shit on fairly loud
Not too loud tho cos it's not Beethoven
He got deaf, he didn't have to listen
Just drank some milk, white's the colour of good
Allegedly, maybe that's bullshit, would
It matter either way, what do words mean?
If words mean nowt, then poetry's a tad
Over-rated, unless it has a beat
Tickin' off all the boxes, spendin' nowt
Listenin' to hot music, that's never bad
Spiritual healin' makes you jump n' shout
Fire those water pistols at the dumb crowd
Played guitar, now some punk classics are on
It's fun to have that shit on fairly loud
Not too loud tho cos it's not Beethoven
He got deaf, he didn't have to listen
Just drank some milk, white's the colour of good
Allegedly, maybe that's bullshit, would
It matter either way, what do words mean?
If words mean nowt, then poetry's a tad
Over-rated, unless it has a beat
Saturday 15 November 2014
3013 - Present and correct
A fun day visiting Josie Wosie
Hopped on the train to Manc Piccadilly
From there we caught the tram down to Old T
Realised this was an opportunity
To buy Jo's things for Christmas and birthday
For part of her Chrissy prezzy, onesie
In Man U design, looks very pretty
Then for her birthday that's in January
She wants to watch United play with me
So I bought two tickets, Reds v Burnley
She thinks the Reds will win, so she's happy
And for me, this present-buying's early
I can afford it, living frugally
Now in Dec and Jan I'll have more money
Hopped on the train to Manc Piccadilly
From there we caught the tram down to Old T
Realised this was an opportunity
To buy Jo's things for Christmas and birthday
For part of her Chrissy prezzy, onesie
In Man U design, looks very pretty
Then for her birthday that's in January
She wants to watch United play with me
So I bought two tickets, Reds v Burnley
She thinks the Reds will win, so she's happy
And for me, this present-buying's early
I can afford it, living frugally
Now in Dec and Jan I'll have more money
Friday 14 November 2014
3012 - Look, don't touch
It's Friday night, but should I play guitar
Or give my hands a rest? After last night
They've felt a bit strained, You know how hands are
When they're over-used. My digits like sprites
Fly over fretboard, sonic dynamite
Portraying thoughts in fractions of seconds
But maybe not tonight, no not tonight
Which means I'll just relax as bed beckons
Read more Clough biog, read how he descends
Deeper into alcohol, still deeper
In his green top, his face flushed red and bright
He'd battle on without Pete, his best friend
So now, as I wonder where's Louis, where?
I'll settle down for a night cheap and quiet
Or give my hands a rest? After last night
They've felt a bit strained, You know how hands are
When they're over-used. My digits like sprites
Fly over fretboard, sonic dynamite
Portraying thoughts in fractions of seconds
But maybe not tonight, no not tonight
Which means I'll just relax as bed beckons
Read more Clough biog, read how he descends
Deeper into alcohol, still deeper
In his green top, his face flushed red and bright
He'd battle on without Pete, his best friend
So now, as I wonder where's Louis, where?
I'll settle down for a night cheap and quiet
Thursday 13 November 2014
3011 - In the bag
A bit of a disappointment tonight
Went to the library after work fired up
Hoping, expecting I'd have time to write
But they closed the room, yes they shut it up
Or maybe it was booked for something. Up
I had to get from the desk. Could have searched
For a chair somewhere, there floors both up
And down, but I feared there'd be few left. Clutched
My bag and left the building, instead fetched
Myself back home, cooked tea, then tried to write
The rest of what I'd begun. Ended up
With two draft poems, then happily snatched
My guitar for the first play for four nights
Disco and funk, yes, my flat is funked up!
Went to the library after work fired up
Hoping, expecting I'd have time to write
But they closed the room, yes they shut it up
Or maybe it was booked for something. Up
I had to get from the desk. Could have searched
For a chair somewhere, there floors both up
And down, but I feared there'd be few left. Clutched
My bag and left the building, instead fetched
Myself back home, cooked tea, then tried to write
The rest of what I'd begun. Ended up
With two draft poems, then happily snatched
My guitar for the first play for four nights
Disco and funk, yes, my flat is funked up!
Wednesday 12 November 2014
3010 - Interstellar interpretation
This evening I went to the cinema
To watch the new big film that's on the block
The motion picture was 'Interstellar'
Like 'Inception' it featured Father Clock
(Well, Father Time don't rhyme, don't mock, don't knock)
And like that other film, it entertained
With concepts and visuals that knock your block
Off, and the loud humming as engines strained
In outer space was something else, sustained
Throbbing that tested the loudspeakers far
Beyond the norm, that seemed to make seats rock
Nolan's sci-fi epics near strain the brain
But stop short of confusing, the idea
Both shown and told so audience can take stock
To watch the new big film that's on the block
The motion picture was 'Interstellar'
Like 'Inception' it featured Father Clock
(Well, Father Time don't rhyme, don't mock, don't knock)
And like that other film, it entertained
With concepts and visuals that knock your block
Off, and the loud humming as engines strained
In outer space was something else, sustained
Throbbing that tested the loudspeakers far
Beyond the norm, that seemed to make seats rock
Nolan's sci-fi epics near strain the brain
But stop short of confusing, the idea
Both shown and told so audience can take stock
Tuesday 11 November 2014
3009 - Full leather jacket
A quick sonnet before I head off out
On the tram to West Didsbury, an old
Eighties stomping ground, it'll be a trout
(Sorry, treat) to revisit it, I'm told
(No, I'm doing the telling!) Not too cold
So I'll stick with the thin white coat, I won't
Change to the thick black one yet that was sold
To me last year, not had a great amount
Of wearing so far. When temperatures mount
(Sorry, plummet - when they go down the spout!)
As they tend to do when winter takes hold
I'll wear the black one, and also, all count
On seeing me quite soon out and about
In my new brown leather jacket. Clothes gold!
On the tram to West Didsbury, an old
Eighties stomping ground, it'll be a trout
(Sorry, treat) to revisit it, I'm told
(No, I'm doing the telling!) Not too cold
So I'll stick with the thin white coat, I won't
Change to the thick black one yet that was sold
To me last year, not had a great amount
Of wearing so far. When temperatures mount
(Sorry, plummet - when they go down the spout!)
As they tend to do when winter takes hold
I'll wear the black one, and also, all count
On seeing me quite soon out and about
In my new brown leather jacket. Clothes gold!
Monday 10 November 2014
3008 - Bards of Salford
The first thing I did when I got back in
From a night out straight after work was eat!
Nicked two slices of Louis' bread, toasting
In the oven, and leaving that to heat
I fried some eggs and to complete the treat
A tin of beans and sausages did fine
Straight after work, I went and took a seat
In the Central Library, wrote some lines
And then met Dominik where the wheel turns
In Piccadilly Gardens in light rain
He's from Austria, and seemed pretty neat
I did well to not drink beer with the strains
Of half-cut conversations, having fun
Good poetry and friends to meet and greet!
From a night out straight after work was eat!
Nicked two slices of Louis' bread, toasting
In the oven, and leaving that to heat
I fried some eggs and to complete the treat
A tin of beans and sausages did fine
Straight after work, I went and took a seat
In the Central Library, wrote some lines
And then met Dominik where the wheel turns
In Piccadilly Gardens in light rain
He's from Austria, and seemed pretty neat
I did well to not drink beer with the strains
Of half-cut conversations, having fun
Good poetry and friends to meet and greet!
Sunday 9 November 2014
3007 - Off the walls
A nice long relaxing day spent inside
A large part of it reading football book
(The Clough biography), listening beside
To footy on the radio, not much luck
For Arsenal again. Who's gonna attack
Chelsea, seemingly safe up in first place?
I also cleaned the flat, sprayed off the muck
From the kitchen walls, and the floor, displaced
The bits off Louis' soles are a disgrace
All trodden in, removed now. Then I tried
For the second time lately to not look
While I played guitar, both treble and bass
On my acoustic, while watching Come Dine
(Repeat), me and my plectrum showing pluck
A large part of it reading football book
(The Clough biography), listening beside
To footy on the radio, not much luck
For Arsenal again. Who's gonna attack
Chelsea, seemingly safe up in first place?
I also cleaned the flat, sprayed off the muck
From the kitchen walls, and the floor, displaced
The bits off Louis' soles are a disgrace
All trodden in, removed now. Then I tried
For the second time lately to not look
While I played guitar, both treble and bass
On my acoustic, while watching Come Dine
(Repeat), me and my plectrum showing pluck
3006 - Spongiform
A lovely day the weather couldn't spoil
Hired a car, drove to Wilmslow, picked up Jo
It's better value, cars, when the rains fall
We drove to Grandma's, where she cooked spag-bo
Then chocolate sponge pud, and other things too
Lots of banter between the three of us
Grandma is getting better, I tell you
Not just her leg, but joining in, no fuss
About not interrupting - that's a plus
Took the car back, then caught the train to Sale
Met up with pals, I drank juice, that was so
Disciplined of me. Crisps and Maltesers
Were a later alternative to ale
Comedy night, then home, the football show
Hired a car, drove to Wilmslow, picked up Jo
It's better value, cars, when the rains fall
We drove to Grandma's, where she cooked spag-bo
Then chocolate sponge pud, and other things too
Lots of banter between the three of us
Grandma is getting better, I tell you
Not just her leg, but joining in, no fuss
About not interrupting - that's a plus
Took the car back, then caught the train to Sale
Met up with pals, I drank juice, that was so
Disciplined of me. Crisps and Maltesers
Were a later alternative to ale
Comedy night, then home, the football show
Friday 7 November 2014
3005 - Here he comes to save the day
It's another Friday night in, woo-hoo!
Saving dosh, saving dosh, just thinking then
When I was squatting myself on the loo
If I continue saving, pay debts and
Stuff, I may be able to comprehend
The chance of paying off the capital
On my interest-only mortgage, and spend
Less that way than adopting the usual
Repayment mortgage, although rates may fall
To 2% or less soon! If they do
Then maybe I'll try that. Money to burn
Not really, got to be oh so careful
Meanwhile, guitar, and watching Naples too
A TV prog about my honeymoon
Saving dosh, saving dosh, just thinking then
When I was squatting myself on the loo
If I continue saving, pay debts and
Stuff, I may be able to comprehend
The chance of paying off the capital
On my interest-only mortgage, and spend
Less that way than adopting the usual
Repayment mortgage, although rates may fall
To 2% or less soon! If they do
Then maybe I'll try that. Money to burn
Not really, got to be oh so careful
Meanwhile, guitar, and watching Naples too
A TV prog about my honeymoon
Thursday 6 November 2014
3004 - See all without travelling
Exciting news, oh yes, exciting news
Is it a royal baby? they wonder
No, that's not it, I've got three new tattoos
On the upper arms and lower shoulder
I'll have you know that's a bony area
And so quite painful to be inked thereon
What were the tattoos of? you all clamour
OK, here goes. First, a souvenir from
Paris, the Eiffel, a silhouette, strong
And straight. Next, the Slovakian crest I used
The one central to their national banner
Last, the two-headed eagle, Albanian
Emblem, black, on red background. Fun to choose
My images, soon may a chance recur!
Is it a royal baby? they wonder
No, that's not it, I've got three new tattoos
On the upper arms and lower shoulder
I'll have you know that's a bony area
And so quite painful to be inked thereon
What were the tattoos of? you all clamour
OK, here goes. First, a souvenir from
Paris, the Eiffel, a silhouette, strong
And straight. Next, the Slovakian crest I used
The one central to their national banner
Last, the two-headed eagle, Albanian
Emblem, black, on red background. Fun to choose
My images, soon may a chance recur!
Wednesday 5 November 2014
3003 - Statistical fireworks
Republicans make big gains in the States
They're all saying Obama is washed up
Even the Democratic candidates
In their campaigns just didn't want his help
Meanwhile, in the UK, there is a blip
In the anti-immigrant argument
Statistics in a new report a ripe
Riposte, showing the gains from immigrants
However, other factors also count
The main one being opening the gates
To too many. They may be good, but stop
A second, look at the fat lazy cunts
Already here, the stupid, obese NEETS
Hope that was politically correct - oops...
They're all saying Obama is washed up
Even the Democratic candidates
In their campaigns just didn't want his help
Meanwhile, in the UK, there is a blip
In the anti-immigrant argument
Statistics in a new report a ripe
Riposte, showing the gains from immigrants
However, other factors also count
The main one being opening the gates
To too many. They may be good, but stop
A second, look at the fat lazy cunts
Already here, the stupid, obese NEETS
Hope that was politically correct - oops...
Tuesday 4 November 2014
3002 - When the time comes
No writing again today, low on fuel
Just don't feel up to it somehow today
Worked quite hard, maybe that's why, it's cruel
But things won't write themselves, I have to say
To myself, no excuses, have to flay
Myself alive to write if necessary
Got to up my game, not just on Sundays
But all through the week, it's just got to be
Better, I should have much more energy
And willpower than this, this is my downfall
When the time comes I want to hide away
To relax, not work, but work is the key
Still, at least guitar practice has been cool
Lately, it's become addictive to play
Just don't feel up to it somehow today
Worked quite hard, maybe that's why, it's cruel
But things won't write themselves, I have to say
To myself, no excuses, have to flay
Myself alive to write if necessary
Got to up my game, not just on Sundays
But all through the week, it's just got to be
Better, I should have much more energy
And willpower than this, this is my downfall
When the time comes I want to hide away
To relax, not work, but work is the key
Still, at least guitar practice has been cool
Lately, it's become addictive to play
Monday 3 November 2014
3001 - Samsung blue
Had hoped to go writing straight after work
Should have done it, no excuse, well apart
From an unexpected text, made me jerk
Awake at lunchtime as my phone was charged
The sound has died on it, need to forward
It to the O2 repair shop but, well
If truth be told you know, I really can't
Be bothered. Checked for messages, and Pearl
Had said 'Let's do lunch' two hours before. She'll
Still be up for it, I hoped, and I smirked
When she was, and we did. Plate piled skyward
I tucked into that trendy-looking pile
And caught up with P. All that walking took
A bit of energy, so writing's out...
Should have done it, no excuse, well apart
From an unexpected text, made me jerk
Awake at lunchtime as my phone was charged
The sound has died on it, need to forward
It to the O2 repair shop but, well
If truth be told you know, I really can't
Be bothered. Checked for messages, and Pearl
Had said 'Let's do lunch' two hours before. She'll
Still be up for it, I hoped, and I smirked
When she was, and we did. Plate piled skyward
I tucked into that trendy-looking pile
And caught up with P. All that walking took
A bit of energy, so writing's out...
Sunday 2 November 2014
3000 - Big 'ead strikes again
I'm feeling quite sleepy this Sunday eve
After reading a lot, that always tires
I finished the Paul Lake, only a brief
Time took til the autobiog expired
The book, I mean, not him. Next up, I fired
With great speed through old pix of football grounds
Blurred pix snapped by old cameras now retired
To landfill sites. It showed the Baseball Ground
In Derby being demolished and quite ground
Into the ground, so to speak. Then, believe
It or not, the next book also conspires
To include Derby FC - well it's bound
To, as it's a biog of Cloughie. Give
It up for Ole Big 'ead, the man's inspired
After reading a lot, that always tires
I finished the Paul Lake, only a brief
Time took til the autobiog expired
The book, I mean, not him. Next up, I fired
With great speed through old pix of football grounds
Blurred pix snapped by old cameras now retired
To landfill sites. It showed the Baseball Ground
In Derby being demolished and quite ground
Into the ground, so to speak. Then, believe
It or not, the next book also conspires
To include Derby FC - well it's bound
To, as it's a biog of Cloughie. Give
It up for Ole Big 'ead, the man's inspired
Saturday 1 November 2014
2999 - Don't you rain on my new black shoes
Back home from seeing Jo, we caught a film
Needed to think of something exciting
And different to do, apart from the realm
Of the shopping mall, football ground, new things
Must be found to do, keep it fresh. Looking
Forward to next week's visit to Grandma
And Jo's excited about car travelling
In one of those white City Car Club cars
Bought new slip-on shoes, boot-shaped. Half a year
I've had no shoes that didn't leak. What balm
For my feet and what new stylish-looking
Image, wearing walking boots no longer
I'll try not to wear them when it rains. Calm
Weather is new shoe leather protecting
Needed to think of something exciting
And different to do, apart from the realm
Of the shopping mall, football ground, new things
Must be found to do, keep it fresh. Looking
Forward to next week's visit to Grandma
And Jo's excited about car travelling
In one of those white City Car Club cars
Bought new slip-on shoes, boot-shaped. Half a year
I've had no shoes that didn't leak. What balm
For my feet and what new stylish-looking
Image, wearing walking boots no longer
I'll try not to wear them when it rains. Calm
Weather is new shoe leather protecting
Friday 31 October 2014
2998 - Sensible equals boring - discuss
I'm excited about Friday night in
Who cares what's going on, life is elsewhere
I'm incubating, saving, delaying
I'm savouring, dreaming, floating on air
It's all possible, and if not, who cares?
I'm healthy, happy, at last starting to
Save time and money, no more to squander
It'll be easy paying for tattoos
This month, and car hire, whatever I choose
No money worries at Christmas, even
In the office my workload starts to clear
And all this simply cos I'm off the booze
Soon I'll do exercises, keep in trim
Play guitar, read, watch TV, then retire
Who cares what's going on, life is elsewhere
I'm incubating, saving, delaying
I'm savouring, dreaming, floating on air
It's all possible, and if not, who cares?
I'm healthy, happy, at last starting to
Save time and money, no more to squander
It'll be easy paying for tattoos
This month, and car hire, whatever I choose
No money worries at Christmas, even
In the office my workload starts to clear
And all this simply cos I'm off the booze
Soon I'll do exercises, keep in trim
Play guitar, read, watch TV, then retire
Thursday 30 October 2014
2997 - Guitar hitter
Just played some real superfast mean guitar
Can still do that when tired as I have been
Tired as I've been, my guitar gets real far
My guitar's the star, it is no has-been
Though it has been slow, it is now so mean
You know what I mean, Harry? It's very
Go-go, it goes very far, it's unseen
It's over the hills, far away, query
It's whereabouts, have you seen it, Harry?
It doesn't tarry, doesn't spout words, blah
I'm married to its spirit, she's my queen
It's in top gear, it screams, there's no theory
It's noise annoys me not, shines like a star
One day we'll go out and we'll reign supreme
Can still do that when tired as I have been
Tired as I've been, my guitar gets real far
My guitar's the star, it is no has-been
Though it has been slow, it is now so mean
You know what I mean, Harry? It's very
Go-go, it goes very far, it's unseen
It's over the hills, far away, query
It's whereabouts, have you seen it, Harry?
It doesn't tarry, doesn't spout words, blah
I'm married to its spirit, she's my queen
It's in top gear, it screams, there's no theory
It's noise annoys me not, shines like a star
One day we'll go out and we'll reign supreme
Wednesday 29 October 2014
2996 - Like the desserts miss the rain
I'm cream crackered and wet through to the skin
Been out for a nice bite to eat and chat
Been awake since 6:30 of morning
I don't like waking up early as that
And now I feel like a drowned cat or rat
Manchester's autumn rain not let me down
Think wetsuit rather than a cricket bat
I just got home from a night on the town
Can't wait for bed, but first got a nice brown
Toffee-flavoured yogurt to be eating
Or are Muller Lights simply a dessert
I think they're healthy or am I a clown
The strawberry one seems yogurty when
I have that, but I've not fond of that fruit
Been out for a nice bite to eat and chat
Been awake since 6:30 of morning
I don't like waking up early as that
And now I feel like a drowned cat or rat
Manchester's autumn rain not let me down
Think wetsuit rather than a cricket bat
I just got home from a night on the town
Can't wait for bed, but first got a nice brown
Toffee-flavoured yogurt to be eating
Or are Muller Lights simply a dessert
I think they're healthy or am I a clown
The strawberry one seems yogurty when
I have that, but I've not fond of that fruit
Tuesday 28 October 2014
2995 - Doctor Poo
It seems like ages, waiting to go out
Still an hour to go, so I'm writing this
To pass the time, rather than jump or shout
Or eat food, whether it be meat or fish
Or even find someone to hug or kiss
It's comedy night in Salford, think I'll
Try my new Dr Baxter stuff, enlist
The tiny audience as critics, a smile
A snigger, even a guffaw, all mile-
stones in road-testing it, to remove doubt
Or increase it maybe, my secret wish
Is to refine it, create a stockpile
Of hilarious medical jokes I'll spout
On bigger stages in front of more eyes
Still an hour to go, so I'm writing this
To pass the time, rather than jump or shout
Or eat food, whether it be meat or fish
Or even find someone to hug or kiss
It's comedy night in Salford, think I'll
Try my new Dr Baxter stuff, enlist
The tiny audience as critics, a smile
A snigger, even a guffaw, all mile-
stones in road-testing it, to remove doubt
Or increase it maybe, my secret wish
Is to refine it, create a stockpile
Of hilarious medical jokes I'll spout
On bigger stages in front of more eyes
Monday 27 October 2014
2994 - Jail guitar cup draws
Lookin' forward to QPR-Villa
On the radio, I get a constant flow
Done exercises when I got back here
Sixty press-ups with no pauses, ya know
And I'm feelin' fit, soz, I shouldn't crow
Spent fifteen quid in Sainsburys, my God
That's more than normal. What did I buy? Oh
Milk, yogurt, porridge, fish fingers (yes, cod)
Not sure why it cost so much. Two soups would
Put up the cost a bit. Soon it's guitar
But first it's the FA Cup draw, although
No big teams yet. First round scraps in the mud
Mind you, pitches are clearly much better
Then when I was a kid. Grass does now grow
On the radio, I get a constant flow
Done exercises when I got back here
Sixty press-ups with no pauses, ya know
And I'm feelin' fit, soz, I shouldn't crow
Spent fifteen quid in Sainsburys, my God
That's more than normal. What did I buy? Oh
Milk, yogurt, porridge, fish fingers (yes, cod)
Not sure why it cost so much. Two soups would
Put up the cost a bit. Soon it's guitar
But first it's the FA Cup draw, although
No big teams yet. First round scraps in the mud
Mind you, pitches are clearly much better
Then when I was a kid. Grass does now grow
Sunday 26 October 2014
2993 - Laughs of the day
A nine hour plus sleep, luxury untold!
A good morning for it, it's clocks back day
Yes, our clocks go back one hour, so we could
Have a long lie-in and still have the day
Left to use or abuse, ignore, obey
Once I rose, I watched TV as usual
And then a gnawing duty seemed to say
'Write comedy!' and so I grabbed my quill
And in forty-five minutes wrote my fill
Of Dr Baxter mirth inducers. Gold
Seam of merriment found 'neath rocks and clay
Good soccer today, the results were brill
Listened to radio commentary, and sold
On watching highlights on Match of the Day
A good morning for it, it's clocks back day
Yes, our clocks go back one hour, so we could
Have a long lie-in and still have the day
Left to use or abuse, ignore, obey
Once I rose, I watched TV as usual
And then a gnawing duty seemed to say
'Write comedy!' and so I grabbed my quill
And in forty-five minutes wrote my fill
Of Dr Baxter mirth inducers. Gold
Seam of merriment found 'neath rocks and clay
Good soccer today, the results were brill
Listened to radio commentary, and sold
On watching highlights on Match of the Day
Saturday 25 October 2014
2992 - Titchy car car
First car hire day for months, it's fun to drive
And the new parking bay's so near my flat
Walk over the canal by bridge, arrive
On St George's Island, and that is that
It's five minutes' walk, no need to break sweat
Toyota Yaris five-door, but was hard
Squeezing in Josie's bike that had a flat
Tyre and broke brake, but drove it to Halfords
For repair, then repaired quickly towards
The Toby Carvery for lunch. Sigh of
Relief - could go to Didsbury, and what
Charity shop bargains all can afford
But none today. Then Bramhall, Marple, I've
Got her bike back, then one more Starbucks chat!
And the new parking bay's so near my flat
Walk over the canal by bridge, arrive
On St George's Island, and that is that
It's five minutes' walk, no need to break sweat
Toyota Yaris five-door, but was hard
Squeezing in Josie's bike that had a flat
Tyre and broke brake, but drove it to Halfords
For repair, then repaired quickly towards
The Toby Carvery for lunch. Sigh of
Relief - could go to Didsbury, and what
Charity shop bargains all can afford
But none today. Then Bramhall, Marple, I've
Got her bike back, then one more Starbucks chat!
Friday 24 October 2014
2991 - Charge of the shite brigade
Got home from work looking to have some fun
When I realised I'd left my phone charger
At the office. Considered buying one
From Maplins, but felt that a cost too far
At least I should try and rescue my dear
Charger that don't fuckin' work, won't connect
To my Samsung phone, though I try all year
To force it in, it pops out, phone rejects
It, or it rejects phone, who knows? Suspect
It's the latter. It's almost litter, bin
Awaits the stupid thing. A Marmite jar
Needed to keep it still. Refuse, collect
This cable that's unable to cling on
I refuse this frustration, do you hear?
When I realised I'd left my phone charger
At the office. Considered buying one
From Maplins, but felt that a cost too far
At least I should try and rescue my dear
Charger that don't fuckin' work, won't connect
To my Samsung phone, though I try all year
To force it in, it pops out, phone rejects
It, or it rejects phone, who knows? Suspect
It's the latter. It's almost litter, bin
Awaits the stupid thing. A Marmite jar
Needed to keep it still. Refuse, collect
This cable that's unable to cling on
I refuse this frustration, do you hear?
Thursday 23 October 2014
2990 - Milk, no alcohol
Today after work, had a free night out
Went to the Halle at Bridgewater Hall
Four pieces of music, firstly by Strauss
(Richard), then a Chopin concerto, full
Of rapid notes which strongly impressed all
The concert-goers, and no doubt, listeners
Live on Radio 3 tonight. Half-time called
And, like last time, walked quickly out the doors
And up to Oxford Road shops, the main cause
Being to buy a drink of milk, about
Five times cheaper than drinks back in the hall
The second half of the concert, it was
Beethoven-themed, the final tour de force
His First Symphony, which had us enthralled
Went to the Halle at Bridgewater Hall
Four pieces of music, firstly by Strauss
(Richard), then a Chopin concerto, full
Of rapid notes which strongly impressed all
The concert-goers, and no doubt, listeners
Live on Radio 3 tonight. Half-time called
And, like last time, walked quickly out the doors
And up to Oxford Road shops, the main cause
Being to buy a drink of milk, about
Five times cheaper than drinks back in the hall
The second half of the concert, it was
Beethoven-themed, the final tour de force
His First Symphony, which had us enthralled
Wednesday 22 October 2014
2989 - Starring in the Star Inn...
A tiring day, my brain was fried by lunch-
Time, but I ploughed on through the fallow field
Until the time came that one does call crunch
And I remembered that I had to steal
Away in time to cook a teatime meal
And then wander to meet a long-time friend
And walk through Higher Broughton, such appeal
At night-time, I know, so we could attend
A fun new group, a poetry readaround
At The Star Inn, a pub run by a bunch
Of locals, owned by them too. Have they keeled
Over, I wonder, the poetry crowd
Drinking their pints, their beer bottles and such
While I left, now tee-total....That sounds weird!!!
Time, but I ploughed on through the fallow field
Until the time came that one does call crunch
And I remembered that I had to steal
Away in time to cook a teatime meal
And then wander to meet a long-time friend
And walk through Higher Broughton, such appeal
At night-time, I know, so we could attend
A fun new group, a poetry readaround
At The Star Inn, a pub run by a bunch
Of locals, owned by them too. Have they keeled
Over, I wonder, the poetry crowd
Drinking their pints, their beer bottles and such
While I left, now tee-total....That sounds weird!!!
Tuesday 21 October 2014
2988 - Good times (things are working out fine)
I feel nicely energised nowadays
No poisons in my bloodstream, I'm all clean
I try to eat well and get exercise
My evenings are a long, productive scene
And day and night, a sense of well-being
I value things now that once were tainted
That once were unattractive, dull and mean
Like, eating, cleaning, much more devoted
Time for creative work - it's resulted
In all things at work and home in a phase
Of being well on track. Time somehow seems
Superabundant, greatly expanded
And I feel happier, in control of days
Not in a daze now, my senses are keen
No poisons in my bloodstream, I'm all clean
I try to eat well and get exercise
My evenings are a long, productive scene
And day and night, a sense of well-being
I value things now that once were tainted
That once were unattractive, dull and mean
Like, eating, cleaning, much more devoted
Time for creative work - it's resulted
In all things at work and home in a phase
Of being well on track. Time somehow seems
Superabundant, greatly expanded
And I feel happier, in control of days
Not in a daze now, my senses are keen
Monday 20 October 2014
2987 - Clothes and money hoist
Thank God, ebola's not the news headline
For a change - has it gone away, or is
It that news editors are bored, they pine
For something new? I know I do. The bizz
Of news can be pragmatic, not to diss
It, oh hell, yes, to diss it, if I must
I'm home tonight, done my exercises
Done clothes washing. Finances got a boost
From nPower, three hundred quid. I'm not used
To such windfalls! It's guitar practice time
Then I'll listen to football commentaries
Come on West Brom, beat United! Don't lose!
'Indiscretions of Archie' is now lined
Up to read - another PG Wodehouse
For a change - has it gone away, or is
It that news editors are bored, they pine
For something new? I know I do. The bizz
Of news can be pragmatic, not to diss
It, oh hell, yes, to diss it, if I must
I'm home tonight, done my exercises
Done clothes washing. Finances got a boost
From nPower, three hundred quid. I'm not used
To such windfalls! It's guitar practice time
Then I'll listen to football commentaries
Come on West Brom, beat United! Don't lose!
'Indiscretions of Archie' is now lined
Up to read - another PG Wodehouse
Sunday 19 October 2014
2986 - Funky weekend
Hey folks, the weekend's through but it's still good
Cos I've breezed through with no booze through my face
I'm not surprised at all, I knew I would
No urges whatsoever, not a trace
Today I periodically cleaned the place
Louis' crumbs, they get everywhere, you know
I read P.G. Wodehouse at quite a pace
His short stories, got more books to follow
Also watched 'The Look of Love' 'bout Soho
Life in the 60s and 70s, rude
Perhaps, but lots of female flesh, retrace
Paul Raymond's controversial and boho
Jet set life, then watched footy. Buffet food
With Nancy this evening - none went to waste
Cos I've breezed through with no booze through my face
I'm not surprised at all, I knew I would
No urges whatsoever, not a trace
Today I periodically cleaned the place
Louis' crumbs, they get everywhere, you know
I read P.G. Wodehouse at quite a pace
His short stories, got more books to follow
Also watched 'The Look of Love' 'bout Soho
Life in the 60s and 70s, rude
Perhaps, but lots of female flesh, retrace
Paul Raymond's controversial and boho
Jet set life, then watched footy. Buffet food
With Nancy this evening - none went to waste
Saturday 18 October 2014
2985 - Weak end
Saturday night, been out all day, now I'm
Back home and there's no drink and none wanted
The amazing thing is just how much time
When I stay clean suddenly lies ahead
And how quick and how much gets done. I've fed
My guitar with attention already
And yet it's still just nine. Maybe I should
Do some writing, I've got some comedy
Planning, my medical routine, healthy
Doses of sick humour, a pantomime
Of bullshit diarrhoea to fuck the head
To make ebola fun for you and me
I'll do a bit, tomorrow I'll be tryin'
To do a bit more, now I'm not wasted
Back home and there's no drink and none wanted
The amazing thing is just how much time
When I stay clean suddenly lies ahead
And how quick and how much gets done. I've fed
My guitar with attention already
And yet it's still just nine. Maybe I should
Do some writing, I've got some comedy
Planning, my medical routine, healthy
Doses of sick humour, a pantomime
Of bullshit diarrhoea to fuck the head
To make ebola fun for you and me
I'll do a bit, tomorrow I'll be tryin'
To do a bit more, now I'm not wasted
Friday 17 October 2014
2984 - Big night out
That's a landmark occasion, knew I could
Do it, and so I have, that first night out
In pubs with friends (from work), but drank no Bud
No lager, no wine, no spirits, no nowt
My mind's still present within me, without
Any decline in bodily control
Also, no need to turn the waterspout
On in the bathroom, or risk getting cold
On the balcony, listening to those old
Songs on the headphones, drinking, smoking. Dud
Lifestyle, deathstyle, leaves willpower without clout
I'm blazing a trail, office colleagues hold
Judgement, see if I succeed. Some friends could
Decide they don't like me no more, no doubt
Do it, and so I have, that first night out
In pubs with friends (from work), but drank no Bud
No lager, no wine, no spirits, no nowt
My mind's still present within me, without
Any decline in bodily control
Also, no need to turn the waterspout
On in the bathroom, or risk getting cold
On the balcony, listening to those old
Songs on the headphones, drinking, smoking. Dud
Lifestyle, deathstyle, leaves willpower without clout
I'm blazing a trail, office colleagues hold
Judgement, see if I succeed. Some friends could
Decide they don't like me no more, no doubt
Thursday 16 October 2014
2983 - Healthy, wealthy and .... let's leave it at that!
Well here we are, the big day's here and so
Me and Louis begin our big challenge
Mine's no booze (or fags), permanently no!
Louis is giving up junk food, no gunge
No sweets, no sugar, jelly or blancmange
Not even Coke. Can he do it? Can I?
It won't be very hard, if we expunge
These evils from our lifestyle, if we try
And succeed, that'll mean it was easy
And it'll be easy because we'll know
That's what we want, we'll soak up like a sponge
The benefits, it'll be a new high
Like being a kid again, and you know
Nostalgia's not like it used to be - cringe!
Me and Louis begin our big challenge
Mine's no booze (or fags), permanently no!
Louis is giving up junk food, no gunge
No sweets, no sugar, jelly or blancmange
Not even Coke. Can he do it? Can I?
It won't be very hard, if we expunge
These evils from our lifestyle, if we try
And succeed, that'll mean it was easy
And it'll be easy because we'll know
That's what we want, we'll soak up like a sponge
The benefits, it'll be a new high
Like being a kid again, and you know
Nostalgia's not like it used to be - cringe!
Wednesday 15 October 2014
2982 - Manc street sweepers
The last night's drinking has arrived, just three
Bottles of beer and that's all folks, it's done
I was gonna go out, but you can see
It's pretty wet out there. I did go down
To the Deli-Lama and hung around
Outside to see who was in. No surprise
Not many were out, so I turned around
And went back home. I'm tired, had two late nights
So I'll just strum a while, and close my eyes
Early-ish for a change, get energy
Back for the future life which should be fun
It shouldn't be a drag, should be all smiles
And like 1,2,3 and like ABC
OK, I'll get to it now this is done
Bottles of beer and that's all folks, it's done
I was gonna go out, but you can see
It's pretty wet out there. I did go down
To the Deli-Lama and hung around
Outside to see who was in. No surprise
Not many were out, so I turned around
And went back home. I'm tired, had two late nights
So I'll just strum a while, and close my eyes
Early-ish for a change, get energy
Back for the future life which should be fun
It shouldn't be a drag, should be all smiles
And like 1,2,3 and like ABC
OK, I'll get to it now this is done
Tuesday 14 October 2014
2981 - The wurst comedy night in Salford... sausages!
A great night down at the King's Arms, Salford
Worst Comedy Night was a right good laugh
Tom Little was there, fresh from his reward
Of getting to the semi-final, tough
Test, of the Beeb's New Comic comp, sure 'nuff
A star is born, maybe. Lukas was there
Fresh from Llandudno, no duds, all good stuff
Handsome James, Tasty Tom, Grant Curnow's hair-
Brained comedy song, and of course, impaired
Dalek prop, Even some audience applaud!
That was a cringy rhyme, a crime, so naff
Tomorrow's strike day, but I must demur
I'm trying to save, fuckers! Not on board
With that, then. I always walk my own path
Worst Comedy Night was a right good laugh
Tom Little was there, fresh from his reward
Of getting to the semi-final, tough
Test, of the Beeb's New Comic comp, sure 'nuff
A star is born, maybe. Lukas was there
Fresh from Llandudno, no duds, all good stuff
Handsome James, Tasty Tom, Grant Curnow's hair-
Brained comedy song, and of course, impaired
Dalek prop, Even some audience applaud!
That was a cringy rhyme, a crime, so naff
Tomorrow's strike day, but I must demur
I'm trying to save, fuckers! Not on board
With that, then. I always walk my own path
2980 - Fuck off fags and booze
I tell you world, that I'm giving up booze
Because booze equals fags, and both are bad
I've done without either, don't need to use
Nicotine, or the chemicals I had
Each time I inhale. It makes me so sad
And unable. Fuck it, it's time to be
Me unfettered, I don't need to be tied
To corporations, it's time to be me
It's far better that way, spiritually
From now on, I'll forge my path, self abuse
A thing of the past, my mind unfettered
That will be amazing, a sight to see
No longer will I squander talent, lose
Out, I will be myself, be loud and proud
Mon 13 Oct
Because booze equals fags, and both are bad
I've done without either, don't need to use
Nicotine, or the chemicals I had
Each time I inhale. It makes me so sad
And unable. Fuck it, it's time to be
Me unfettered, I don't need to be tied
To corporations, it's time to be me
It's far better that way, spiritually
From now on, I'll forge my path, self abuse
A thing of the past, my mind unfettered
That will be amazing, a sight to see
No longer will I squander talent, lose
Out, I will be myself, be loud and proud
Mon 13 Oct
Sunday 12 October 2014
2979 - Opportunity drops
I had a good day, physically fit
After a good night's sleep, did lots of stuff
Including THREE new poems that I writ
Cos I meant to go out tonight, but fluffed
The opportunity, my powder puff
Work ethic failing me again, using
The England match as my excuse! Enough
Nights later this month though, and my showing
Up is now vital, even the playing
Music night this Wednesday. Now that I've quit
Drinking and smoking (for now), I should have
The clarity of mind, the free thinking
To go out and do more, cos I had writ
The material especially. Rise above!!
After a good night's sleep, did lots of stuff
Including THREE new poems that I writ
Cos I meant to go out tonight, but fluffed
The opportunity, my powder puff
Work ethic failing me again, using
The England match as my excuse! Enough
Nights later this month though, and my showing
Up is now vital, even the playing
Music night this Wednesday. Now that I've quit
Drinking and smoking (for now), I should have
The clarity of mind, the free thinking
To go out and do more, cos I had writ
The material especially. Rise above!!
Saturday 11 October 2014
2978 - Rugger bugger
Interrupted sleep last night, loud party
After an hour turned light on, read my book
Neared the end of Mary Barton quickly
But left the last few pages, which I flicked
Through on the train to Cheshire, on the track
I was on track to finish, and I did
Reach the conclusion before getting back
To Manchester. What did we do? We sped
By train and tram once more to Old Trafford
St Helens and Wigan met there, rugby
Grand Final, striped shirts, beer bellies, the look
Ate curry at the Quays mall, then we heard
Loud horns blown. Back in town, bought for Josie
A phone case for her i-Phone 4 - it's slick
After an hour turned light on, read my book
Neared the end of Mary Barton quickly
But left the last few pages, which I flicked
Through on the train to Cheshire, on the track
I was on track to finish, and I did
Reach the conclusion before getting back
To Manchester. What did we do? We sped
By train and tram once more to Old Trafford
St Helens and Wigan met there, rugby
Grand Final, striped shirts, beer bellies, the look
Ate curry at the Quays mall, then we heard
Loud horns blown. Back in town, bought for Josie
A phone case for her i-Phone 4 - it's slick
Friday 10 October 2014
2977 - No smoke without burnt money
Continuing my effort to stay clear
Of wasted money on booze, fags, whatnot
And so far doing well, first week is near
Saved money in imaginary pot
Piling up slowly but surely, the slot
By which coins enter becoming well-worn
OK, I'm only talkin' 'bout a slight
Amount, a few quid, so far, but I'm sworn
Against transgressing these days, feels I've grown
Out of the habit easily (yes, cheer!)
Those urges replaced by healthy things that
Also improve the mind. Evenings have flown
Just as much as if drinking yet more beer
Life can still be fun, not losing the plot
Of wasted money on booze, fags, whatnot
And so far doing well, first week is near
Saved money in imaginary pot
Piling up slowly but surely, the slot
By which coins enter becoming well-worn
OK, I'm only talkin' 'bout a slight
Amount, a few quid, so far, but I'm sworn
Against transgressing these days, feels I've grown
Out of the habit easily (yes, cheer!)
Those urges replaced by healthy things that
Also improve the mind. Evenings have flown
Just as much as if drinking yet more beer
Life can still be fun, not losing the plot
Thursday 9 October 2014
2976 - San Bullshitto
Worked late, I hope they appreciate it all
Meant there was no time to do much tonight
Before the all-important thing, football
Began - a stupid game that should be quite
A landslide for England, since their foot-fight
Is against the minute San Marino
This opposition, a small town, a sight
Few have seen, somewhere between Torino
And its Italian rival, Milano
Up there in northern Italy. Fuck all
Has happened yet, millionaire English might
Failing to crack the foe, no domino
Effect as yet, no rush from goal to goal
It's a good laugh, give Roy Hodgson a fright...
But soon as I wrote that, England scored.
Meant there was no time to do much tonight
Before the all-important thing, football
Began - a stupid game that should be quite
A landslide for England, since their foot-fight
Is against the minute San Marino
This opposition, a small town, a sight
Few have seen, somewhere between Torino
And its Italian rival, Milano
Up there in northern Italy. Fuck all
Has happened yet, millionaire English might
Failing to crack the foe, no domino
Effect as yet, no rush from goal to goal
It's a good laugh, give Roy Hodgson a fright...
But soon as I wrote that, England scored.
Wednesday 8 October 2014
2975 - Keep on improvin'
Hey, it's all a comedy of errors
Can't believe how stupid some people are
But there you are, just have to deal with those
Meanwhile, it's as though I've joined Stoptober
I didn't mean to at month's start, but there
It is, and I'm better for it. My bank
Account's still got plenty in it to spare
Keep on like this, and I can finally sink
Some cash into plumbing repairs, I think
And maybe tattoos too, you know, because
I've got a few lined up to do, from far
Off days visiting places exotic
Or high-tech or both, European tours
And I'm reading 'Mary Barton' - hurrah!
Can't believe how stupid some people are
But there you are, just have to deal with those
Meanwhile, it's as though I've joined Stoptober
I didn't mean to at month's start, but there
It is, and I'm better for it. My bank
Account's still got plenty in it to spare
Keep on like this, and I can finally sink
Some cash into plumbing repairs, I think
And maybe tattoos too, you know, because
I've got a few lined up to do, from far
Off days visiting places exotic
Or high-tech or both, European tours
And I'm reading 'Mary Barton' - hurrah!
Tuesday 7 October 2014
2974 - Life's ebola cherries
A good nights' sleep, broken by listening to
A radio discussion of ebola
Haircut this lunchtime, rain meant there's no queue
And now thank goodness I look far smarter
Was having to slap much gel on my hair
It's the Lib Dems' party conference up in
Glasgow, but who cares? Clegg's interviews there
Suggest they'll do this and that if they win
And stay in government. How could that happen?
Junior coalition partners can't do
What's on their manifesto, remember,
Clegg? But it's clear he'd rather be again
A junior partner in power than stay true
UKIP might get more votes than them (be scared...!!)
A radio discussion of ebola
Haircut this lunchtime, rain meant there's no queue
And now thank goodness I look far smarter
Was having to slap much gel on my hair
It's the Lib Dems' party conference up in
Glasgow, but who cares? Clegg's interviews there
Suggest they'll do this and that if they win
And stay in government. How could that happen?
Junior coalition partners can't do
What's on their manifesto, remember,
Clegg? But it's clear he'd rather be again
A junior partner in power than stay true
UKIP might get more votes than them (be scared...!!)
Monday 6 October 2014
2973 - See it through
I suppose it could have been worse, if I
Had argued back, but that doesn't work, so
Who gives a shit, I'll let worry go by
And work on what I can affect, won't go
But also won't get stressed out, so you know
And no apologies for that, suckers
Anyway, more importantly, things grow
On the friendship front, and all the smokers
Will have to share elsewhere, I'm none of theirs
At least for now, which means I'll save, bye-bye
To ashtrays, unnecessary beer flow
It's time for common sense, exercises
Oh that all sounds boring, I know, but try
For a while, be determined, go go go!
Had argued back, but that doesn't work, so
Who gives a shit, I'll let worry go by
And work on what I can affect, won't go
But also won't get stressed out, so you know
And no apologies for that, suckers
Anyway, more importantly, things grow
On the friendship front, and all the smokers
Will have to share elsewhere, I'm none of theirs
At least for now, which means I'll save, bye-bye
To ashtrays, unnecessary beer flow
It's time for common sense, exercises
Oh that all sounds boring, I know, but try
For a while, be determined, go go go!
2972 - Eat, drink, save, repeat
I'm pretty pleased, pretty pleased, pretty pleased
That I've quit fags (again), quit fags (again)
And I've noticed, I've noticed, I've noticed
That my beer consumption, beer consumption
Goes down, down, it goes down, down, it goes down
Tonight with Nancy, tonight with Nancy
I had no beer but had fun. no beer, fun
That's happened before to me, to me, me
So there's no problem, you see, you see, see
I save money when I do this, do this
And feel better all round, better all round
Taxman, you're getting less duty, duty
Plumber, tattoos, I must pay for these, these
I've also got Lou's rent, Lou's rent, Lou's rent
Sun 5 Oct
That I've quit fags (again), quit fags (again)
And I've noticed, I've noticed, I've noticed
That my beer consumption, beer consumption
Goes down, down, it goes down, down, it goes down
Tonight with Nancy, tonight with Nancy
I had no beer but had fun. no beer, fun
That's happened before to me, to me, me
So there's no problem, you see, you see, see
I save money when I do this, do this
And feel better all round, better all round
Taxman, you're getting less duty, duty
Plumber, tattoos, I must pay for these, these
I've also got Lou's rent, Lou's rent, Lou's rent
Sun 5 Oct
Saturday 4 October 2014
2971 - Train in rain
Rainy morning, walked to Piccadilly
But coat made me warm, took it off on train
Got off at Wilmslow, dry now, saw Josie
We walked to station, Manchester again
Same as last weekend, Old Trafford the scene
She was hoping for an MU phone case
They didn't have them, the trip was in vain
But I bought her a football from the trays
Of dark blue balls, dark blue is their away
Strip this season. The shirts are seventy
Quid each, sixty for kids' sizes. Refrained
From splashing out that much. You'd be amazed
At all the foreigners in that store, pre-
pared to part with humongous cash therein
But coat made me warm, took it off on train
Got off at Wilmslow, dry now, saw Josie
We walked to station, Manchester again
Same as last weekend, Old Trafford the scene
She was hoping for an MU phone case
They didn't have them, the trip was in vain
But I bought her a football from the trays
Of dark blue balls, dark blue is their away
Strip this season. The shirts are seventy
Quid each, sixty for kids' sizes. Refrained
From splashing out that much. You'd be amazed
At all the foreigners in that store, pre-
pared to part with humongous cash therein
Friday 3 October 2014
2970 - Old age rampage
Today saw a leaving do, retirement
Arrives for one more person, one more stage
In the journey reached, one more era spent
One more face that may never re-engage
With mine, one more time Father Time and age
Have worked their dubious charms, though should be said
Retirement has its good side, a new page
Opens, unpaid work, new friends, trips abroad
And this is where I'm envious - mortgage paid
Traditional roles, country lady and gent
But in future it could be all the rage
To live in the city, choose not to fade
In the same way, keep up the excitement
Chat, eat, drink, shop, walk, keep up the rampage
Arrives for one more person, one more stage
In the journey reached, one more era spent
One more face that may never re-engage
With mine, one more time Father Time and age
Have worked their dubious charms, though should be said
Retirement has its good side, a new page
Opens, unpaid work, new friends, trips abroad
And this is where I'm envious - mortgage paid
Traditional roles, country lady and gent
But in future it could be all the rage
To live in the city, choose not to fade
In the same way, keep up the excitement
Chat, eat, drink, shop, walk, keep up the rampage
Thursday 2 October 2014
2969 - Lose the blues
Had a good play on the guitar tonight
Finding it easier to just play along
Quite quickly. Love making it up, no shite
Rehearsals as such, repetition dung
Always different each moment, though rock songs
And also r and b, they tend to make
It easy just to use blues progressions
I prefer those that don't, although mistakes
Can be made in less simple songs, but breaks
More new ground, forces the mind to think tight
And be on point, more's learned, not going wrong
And now what to do, bored now, I might take
Myself out to by drink, fill the gap night
Creates before bedtime, then snore-along
Finding it easier to just play along
Quite quickly. Love making it up, no shite
Rehearsals as such, repetition dung
Always different each moment, though rock songs
And also r and b, they tend to make
It easy just to use blues progressions
I prefer those that don't, although mistakes
Can be made in less simple songs, but breaks
More new ground, forces the mind to think tight
And be on point, more's learned, not going wrong
And now what to do, bored now, I might take
Myself out to by drink, fill the gap night
Creates before bedtime, then snore-along
Wednesday 1 October 2014
2968 - The clothed lunch
So tired, but things are reasonably OK
Looking forward to the pub tomorrow
A lunchtime leaving do, with a buffet
Is better than an appraisal, you know
Just realised I could have a new tattoo
Or three this month, should have the spends, I hope
But also need a plumber, fix the loo
The last one who fixed it did a bad job!
I'm flush with cash, but won't be soon. I'll sob
If it costs much. Last night was up til three
Good tasty pints at Salford Arms, yes, so
Tastier than the Kings Arms, although I gobbed
Back a good ginger pint there, have to say
Derby won again last night, so close now!
Looking forward to the pub tomorrow
A lunchtime leaving do, with a buffet
Is better than an appraisal, you know
Just realised I could have a new tattoo
Or three this month, should have the spends, I hope
But also need a plumber, fix the loo
The last one who fixed it did a bad job!
I'm flush with cash, but won't be soon. I'll sob
If it costs much. Last night was up til three
Good tasty pints at Salford Arms, yes, so
Tastier than the Kings Arms, although I gobbed
Back a good ginger pint there, have to say
Derby won again last night, so close now!
2967 - Three pints, no, more like six
Hi, well what happened today, you ask me
Me and Steve went to an oil terminal
A stone's throw from that good old Salford Quays
I walked back to the office, 'bout two mile
Queued up for ages at Greggs, all the while
Failing to connect to their wi-fi. Then
After work, and tea, tried to raise a smile
At the Kings Arms, in the snug, where the men
Were all acts, only Dermot was audience
Most of it was memorised, and rightly
You don't get anywhere with material
That's all written down, that you can't defend
After that, the Salford Arms, pint or three
And then home, writing this, now my bed calls...
Tue 30 Sep
Me and Steve went to an oil terminal
A stone's throw from that good old Salford Quays
I walked back to the office, 'bout two mile
Queued up for ages at Greggs, all the while
Failing to connect to their wi-fi. Then
After work, and tea, tried to raise a smile
At the Kings Arms, in the snug, where the men
Were all acts, only Dermot was audience
Most of it was memorised, and rightly
You don't get anywhere with material
That's all written down, that you can't defend
After that, the Salford Arms, pint or three
And then home, writing this, now my bed calls...
Tue 30 Sep
Tuesday 30 September 2014
2966 - Pub quiz
It's late, and because we came in third place
I had a few ales, that was the third prize
But I need more booze to pour in my face
I just can't accept it's been finalised
Anyway, we did well, I specialised
And Alison was a real expert on
Films, TV and stuff, it was a surprise
How much she knew about old stuff that's from
The seventies, or eighties, and we won
Third prize, which meant that I could fill my face
With free beer, and I did, so scandalise
Me if you must, but I now rest upon
The fact that we did well, but now erased
Are my memories of how things arrived
Mon 29 Sep
I had a few ales, that was the third prize
But I need more booze to pour in my face
I just can't accept it's been finalised
Anyway, we did well, I specialised
And Alison was a real expert on
Films, TV and stuff, it was a surprise
How much she knew about old stuff that's from
The seventies, or eighties, and we won
Third prize, which meant that I could fill my face
With free beer, and I did, so scandalise
Me if you must, but I now rest upon
The fact that we did well, but now erased
Are my memories of how things arrived
Mon 29 Sep
Monday 29 September 2014
2965 - UKDK
It's not going well for Tories or Labour
The two main parties are both losing friends
Maybe Salmond was right 'bout Westminster
The same feeling exists here in England
And no doubt in Wales and Northern Ireland
At least those two have their own small parties
That exert some power and some influence
Locally and nationally, unlike these
MPs of Labour and of the Tories
London-dominated, centralised, power
Exerted by the rich, throwing fag-ends
Of spin our way, especially as it nears
Election time. Well, maybe there'll be a
Swing away from them and their cosy ends
Sun 28 Sep
The two main parties are both losing friends
Maybe Salmond was right 'bout Westminster
The same feeling exists here in England
And no doubt in Wales and Northern Ireland
At least those two have their own small parties
That exert some power and some influence
Locally and nationally, unlike these
MPs of Labour and of the Tories
London-dominated, centralised, power
Exerted by the rich, throwing fag-ends
Of spin our way, especially as it nears
Election time. Well, maybe there'll be a
Swing away from them and their cosy ends
Sun 28 Sep
Saturday 27 September 2014
2964 - Red missed
It's been a fun afternoon out with Jo
I woke up late, at almost eleven
And at first she said she wanted to go
To Stockport, not Manchester, the reason
Is she was worried 'bout terrorism
In the end though because of her new phone
She wanted a United phone case and
That meant going to the store. Everyone
Would be there, Manchester United home
To West Ham today. But, what a shame, though
There was a match on, the store's not open
Neither were the toilets, so we were gone
Although we did get caught up in the flow
Of reds fans heading home on tram and train!
I woke up late, at almost eleven
And at first she said she wanted to go
To Stockport, not Manchester, the reason
Is she was worried 'bout terrorism
In the end though because of her new phone
She wanted a United phone case and
That meant going to the store. Everyone
Would be there, Manchester United home
To West Ham today. But, what a shame, though
There was a match on, the store's not open
Neither were the toilets, so we were gone
Although we did get caught up in the flow
Of reds fans heading home on tram and train!
Friday 26 September 2014
2963 - Sonnet for Joni
Fun sort of day at work I guess though lots
Of work to be done while some just chatted
Anyway, now I'm home, and I have just
Exercised on the bedroom floor, and that's
The first time in a while. Meanwhile the flat
Seems to be mine this weekend, Louis out
At his mum's empty flat so he can write
I just feel like listening to music. Out
Myself Sat and Sun, so I'll just chill out
It is quite chilly out now, summer plummets
It's clearly coolly autumn, coat and hat
Advised, and the hat's not to keep sun out
But to keep top of head reasonably hot
In the cool, though sunburn-irritated
Of work to be done while some just chatted
Anyway, now I'm home, and I have just
Exercised on the bedroom floor, and that's
The first time in a while. Meanwhile the flat
Seems to be mine this weekend, Louis out
At his mum's empty flat so he can write
I just feel like listening to music. Out
Myself Sat and Sun, so I'll just chill out
It is quite chilly out now, summer plummets
It's clearly coolly autumn, coat and hat
Advised, and the hat's not to keep sun out
But to keep top of head reasonably hot
In the cool, though sunburn-irritated
Thursday 25 September 2014
2962 - Bright sparks
Second day back at work (still adjusting!)
Mainly over in Trinity Bridge House
In a hot overcrowded room, dozing
Here and there, heavy eyelids, sleepy eyes
Finally though my interest slightly rose
As a man talked about consultations
I will allegedly do one of those
Quite soon, and so I paid close attention
Not that much of value was said, but some
Bright sparks asked questions, thus showing
How bright and sparky they were, and it shows
Tonight just played guitar, got washing done
Not much of real excitement happening
It's a long evening... Maybe get some booze?
Mainly over in Trinity Bridge House
In a hot overcrowded room, dozing
Here and there, heavy eyelids, sleepy eyes
Finally though my interest slightly rose
As a man talked about consultations
I will allegedly do one of those
Quite soon, and so I paid close attention
Not that much of value was said, but some
Bright sparks asked questions, thus showing
How bright and sparky they were, and it shows
Tonight just played guitar, got washing done
Not much of real excitement happening
It's a long evening... Maybe get some booze?
Wednesday 24 September 2014
2961 - They've had their chips
First day back at work, worked quite long and hard
Chatted to workmates, not too much, oh no!
No white shirt in the wardrobe. Been abroad
And got a new tan to show off, you know!
In the end, wore a patterned red one, though
My tan was still quite visible, I think!
After work, met Louis in town, Leo's
Chippie, then after chips, haddock and drink
(Louis' a veggie, just had chips, barm, drink...)
We caught the tram down to the Etihad
Stadium to watch Manchester City go
And get seven goals almost in a blink
In the second half against Wednesday (bored
In first half!) Now it's highlights TV show!
Chatted to workmates, not too much, oh no!
No white shirt in the wardrobe. Been abroad
And got a new tan to show off, you know!
In the end, wore a patterned red one, though
My tan was still quite visible, I think!
After work, met Louis in town, Leo's
Chippie, then after chips, haddock and drink
(Louis' a veggie, just had chips, barm, drink...)
We caught the tram down to the Etihad
Stadium to watch Manchester City go
And get seven goals almost in a blink
In the second half against Wednesday (bored
In first half!) Now it's highlights TV show!
2960 - First day back
(A day late, posting about yesterday)
A long and busy day, though spent at home
Only four hours sleep, cos of the delay
With the late plane home from Corfu, with some
Mistakes made by easyJet, the wrong plane
Being one of them. No more trains would run
At gone 2 a.m, but a bus then came
At 2:30 to take us home. Right on!
Sleep came at 4:45. Yes, it came
At last! Bliss! First chore though on the new day
Was unblocking the loo, rubber gloves donned
Then sorted my holiday photos, gained
Some likes. Typed up my Greek jokes and twenty
Fun travel limericks. How I like to roam!
About Tue 23 Sep
A long and busy day, though spent at home
Only four hours sleep, cos of the delay
With the late plane home from Corfu, with some
Mistakes made by easyJet, the wrong plane
Being one of them. No more trains would run
At gone 2 a.m, but a bus then came
At 2:30 to take us home. Right on!
Sleep came at 4:45. Yes, it came
At last! Bliss! First chore though on the new day
Was unblocking the loo, rubber gloves donned
Then sorted my holiday photos, gained
Some likes. Typed up my Greek jokes and twenty
Fun travel limericks. How I like to roam!
About Tue 23 Sep
Tuesday 23 September 2014
2959 - Up and down Corfu
It's the final day of our holidays
Although humid, there's been a lot of cloud
Some sunny spells. The timing was OK
We got a bus from out of Corfu Town
To Mount Pantokrator, the highest mount
On the island, 3,000 feet, not tall
Compared to some in Greece, but a foot-pound
All right. Was worried sun will make us boil
And sweat profusely, but it clouded well
And screened us from sun on our upward way
We walked through clouds, it was cool but the shroud
Of mist hid the views. The sun came out while
We were at Agni Beach, cooling sea spray
Great last treat on the same day we fly out
Mon 22 Sep
Although humid, there's been a lot of cloud
Some sunny spells. The timing was OK
We got a bus from out of Corfu Town
To Mount Pantokrator, the highest mount
On the island, 3,000 feet, not tall
Compared to some in Greece, but a foot-pound
All right. Was worried sun will make us boil
And sweat profusely, but it clouded well
And screened us from sun on our upward way
We walked through clouds, it was cool but the shroud
Of mist hid the views. The sun came out while
We were at Agni Beach, cooling sea spray
Great last treat on the same day we fly out
Mon 22 Sep
2958 - And wine not?
It may be Sunday, but who gives a fuck?
Today we went from Saranda to Corfu
Most of the day was Saranda, as luck
Would have it, then the ferry took us to
Corfu from Albania, travellers me and you
Dragged my suitcase to the hotel, sweaty
Changed tops, a bottle of wine by the sea
Lots of midges biting, not biting me
Then to a restaurant, prices not low
But what can you do, when you're all at sea?
Corfu, Albania, it's all the same sea
Ionian, south of Adriatic, pluck
One from the other, all comes down to luck
I'm pissed, that's all I'd like to say to you!!
Sun 21 Sep
Today we went from Saranda to Corfu
Most of the day was Saranda, as luck
Would have it, then the ferry took us to
Corfu from Albania, travellers me and you
Dragged my suitcase to the hotel, sweaty
Changed tops, a bottle of wine by the sea
Lots of midges biting, not biting me
Then to a restaurant, prices not low
But what can you do, when you're all at sea?
Corfu, Albania, it's all the same sea
Ionian, south of Adriatic, pluck
One from the other, all comes down to luck
I'm pissed, that's all I'd like to say to you!!
Sun 21 Sep
2957 - I owe an Ionian
Bit of a lie-in, for a change on this
Holiday in Greece and Albania
Not a good breakfast, was taking the piss
In Hotel Giraldo, Gjirokaster
Walked up the hill to the old town, then the
Time came to catch the bus to the resort
Of Saranda. The beach was pebbly, a
Trial for bare feet. John actually got cut
On the feet. Swam in the sea, quite far out
The Ionian Sea, nice and warm it was
Concluded the day with a meal and beer
Nearly 50 lek spent from our account
But for two two-course meals and booze, well it's
Not that much. Overall, it's still cheap, yeah?
Sat 20 Sep
Holiday in Greece and Albania
Not a good breakfast, was taking the piss
In Hotel Giraldo, Gjirokaster
Walked up the hill to the old town, then the
Time came to catch the bus to the resort
Of Saranda. The beach was pebbly, a
Trial for bare feet. John actually got cut
On the feet. Swam in the sea, quite far out
The Ionian Sea, nice and warm it was
Concluded the day with a meal and beer
Nearly 50 lek spent from our account
But for two two-course meals and booze, well it's
Not that much. Overall, it's still cheap, yeah?
Sat 20 Sep
2956 - Kids in Albania
A very long day, up at crack of dawn
The 7 a.m. bus from Monodendri
To Ioannina... Of sleep I was shorn
The morning mist in the mountains. Then we
Walked to Perama. Sat in a cafe
While John visited the cave. Caught the bus
To Gjirokastra, Albania. Happy
Walking around, everyone jaywalks. Sussed
Out the castle and old town, now tourist-
Friendly. Downhill to the new bustling town
Mixture of girls and boys still there to see
Scooters, cars, but traffic lights don't exist
Roundabouts are anarchic. When we'd seen
The main sights, chicken and chips, beer, TV
Fri 19 Sep
The 7 a.m. bus from Monodendri
To Ioannina... Of sleep I was shorn
The morning mist in the mountains. Then we
Walked to Perama. Sat in a cafe
While John visited the cave. Caught the bus
To Gjirokastra, Albania. Happy
Walking around, everyone jaywalks. Sussed
Out the castle and old town, now tourist-
Friendly. Downhill to the new bustling town
Mixture of girls and boys still there to see
Scooters, cars, but traffic lights don't exist
Roundabouts are anarchic. When we'd seen
The main sights, chicken and chips, beer, TV
Fri 19 Sep
2955 - Gorge-ous
Today could be Scots' independence day
The day the Jocks vote, their referendum
On whether to stay or leave the UK
Although it affects us, it's up to them
There could be reprisals from Cameron
If they have the audacity to go
Meanwhile today in Greece it's been good fun
Got up early, got lost bag back, that's so
Lucky, it contained my passport! We showed
A fleet foot in the Vikos Gorge today
Good exercise, though quite a strain for some
Mainly shaded by trees, pleasant to go
Along. Got a lift back from the cafe-
Owner at Vikos. Shared ride with Germans
Thur 18 Sep
The day the Jocks vote, their referendum
On whether to stay or leave the UK
Although it affects us, it's up to them
There could be reprisals from Cameron
If they have the audacity to go
Meanwhile today in Greece it's been good fun
Got up early, got lost bag back, that's so
Lucky, it contained my passport! We showed
A fleet foot in the Vikos Gorge today
Good exercise, though quite a strain for some
Mainly shaded by trees, pleasant to go
Along. Got a lift back from the cafe-
Owner at Vikos. Shared ride with Germans
Thur 18 Sep
2954 - Ioannina to Monodendri
Had breakfast at the Dioni Hotel
In Ioannina, north-west part of Greece
An area they call Zagori. All well
At first, wandered round, saw the lake, a nice
View, blue water and sky, and all at peace
Busy streets in town centre though, no sign
Of austerity. Frappe. Caught the bus
To Monodendri, but changed buses. In
The rush I left my bag on the first one
(With passport in it!) I thought 'Fucking hell!
How will I get that back?' Didn't need police
Spoke to the driver. He rang the first one
And it was agreed that next morning we'll
Meet and he'll return it. Hotel's GORGE-ous!
Wed 17 Sep
In Ioannina, north-west part of Greece
An area they call Zagori. All well
At first, wandered round, saw the lake, a nice
View, blue water and sky, and all at peace
Busy streets in town centre though, no sign
Of austerity. Frappe. Caught the bus
To Monodendri, but changed buses. In
The rush I left my bag on the first one
(With passport in it!) I thought 'Fucking hell!
How will I get that back?' Didn't need police
Spoke to the driver. He rang the first one
And it was agreed that next morning we'll
Meet and he'll return it. Hotel's GORGE-ous!
Wed 17 Sep
2953 - Corfu to Ioannina
First full day in Greece. Woke up in Corfu
Aided by lots of noise from cranes moving
Rocks in the harbour. Only got a few
Hours sleep, just made breakfast, was enjoying
(Missing line)
The last two fried eggs, and a boiled egg. Then
We strolled along the seafront, me dragging
My suitcase on wheels in the heat. Hopped on
The ferry to Igoumenitsa. Some
Hours there, killing time, drinking Alfa brew
Til the 5:30 bus. We were going
To Ioannina, got there 'bout 7
Seems full of students. Cheap food, meatball soup
Then a few beers, late to bed. Eyes shutting...
Tue 16 Sep
Aided by lots of noise from cranes moving
Rocks in the harbour. Only got a few
Hours sleep, just made breakfast, was enjoying
(Missing line)
The last two fried eggs, and a boiled egg. Then
We strolled along the seafront, me dragging
My suitcase on wheels in the heat. Hopped on
The ferry to Igoumenitsa. Some
Hours there, killing time, drinking Alfa brew
Til the 5:30 bus. We were going
To Ioannina, got there 'bout 7
Seems full of students. Cheap food, meatball soup
Then a few beers, late to bed. Eyes shutting...
Tue 16 Sep
2952 - Late night trip to Greece
Hello everyone, we are here in Greece
Afternoon flight, Manchester to Corfu
But time zones mean that we arrive, crisis
Eleven is quite late, for me and you
We did our best to find a decent brew
In Corfu Town. It's not all cheap, no way
But we found somewhere, drank beers, wine, what have you
And drank til beyond 3, accepting they
Wouldn't serve beer that time, not OK
And so tomorrow, ferry, mainland, is
Our goal, to Ioannina, get straight through
Stay there one night, then somehow make our way
To the Vikos Gorge. Have a peace-
ful night, and I wish the exact same to you
Mon 15 Sep
Afternoon flight, Manchester to Corfu
But time zones mean that we arrive, crisis
Eleven is quite late, for me and you
We did our best to find a decent brew
In Corfu Town. It's not all cheap, no way
But we found somewhere, drank beers, wine, what have you
And drank til beyond 3, accepting they
Wouldn't serve beer that time, not OK
And so tomorrow, ferry, mainland, is
Our goal, to Ioannina, get straight through
Stay there one night, then somehow make our way
To the Vikos Gorge. Have a peace-
ful night, and I wish the exact same to you
Mon 15 Sep
Sunday 14 September 2014
2951 - Scotland and Stockport
The day started with Salmond and Darling
Being interviewed on the Andrew Marr Show
About the Scottish vote that is taking
Place while me and John walk the gorge and go
To Albania. When will we get to know
The result? We'll be so far away then
Then I went to Stockport baths with li'l Jo
Managed to lift her, using all my strength
Up out of the water by her feet, and
Keep her there for a few seconds! Laughing
As usual, a bit late getting home though
And cold (no coat). Got back, let Louis in
He'd been locked out all day! He's suffering
With a cold. I'll make him toast and milk now
Being interviewed on the Andrew Marr Show
About the Scottish vote that is taking
Place while me and John walk the gorge and go
To Albania. When will we get to know
The result? We'll be so far away then
Then I went to Stockport baths with li'l Jo
Managed to lift her, using all my strength
Up out of the water by her feet, and
Keep her there for a few seconds! Laughing
As usual, a bit late getting home though
And cold (no coat). Got back, let Louis in
He'd been locked out all day! He's suffering
With a cold. I'll make him toast and milk now
Saturday 13 September 2014
2950 - Old wave
Not done much today, mainly just reading
Through the Encyclopedia of New Wave
The author's American, he's using
A Yank definition of who to save
For inclusion, and who not. Meanings weave
In and out as you fly the Atlantic
Different interpretations, some which they've
Adapted and altered from historic
UK roots. We before that twisted, tricked
Continental words, subtly transforming
The Latin sound and meaning to less suave
Maybe, the Anglo-Saxon Germanic
Brutalising the mellifluous ring
To that monotonous drone that we have
Through the Encyclopedia of New Wave
The author's American, he's using
A Yank definition of who to save
For inclusion, and who not. Meanings weave
In and out as you fly the Atlantic
Different interpretations, some which they've
Adapted and altered from historic
UK roots. We before that twisted, tricked
Continental words, subtly transforming
The Latin sound and meaning to less suave
Maybe, the Anglo-Saxon Germanic
Brutalising the mellifluous ring
To that monotonous drone that we have
Friday 12 September 2014
2949 - Get us to the Greek!
That's it, my last day's work done, now I can
Concentrate on my upcoming travel
To Greece and Albania along with John
Might be more difficult this time to 'pull'
For those who think I'm a magnet for girls
(So untrue). Still not got my currency
Do they use the euro in Greece? Same thrill
As last time when I went there, hopefully
Sunshine, signs all in Greek, all that we'll see
Blue sea around Corfu, then the mainland
Walking a great long gorge, hope that goes well
Then crossing into that strange old country
Albania, what will it be like, and when
We reach Tirana? Soon I'll know and tell...
Concentrate on my upcoming travel
To Greece and Albania along with John
Might be more difficult this time to 'pull'
For those who think I'm a magnet for girls
(So untrue). Still not got my currency
Do they use the euro in Greece? Same thrill
As last time when I went there, hopefully
Sunshine, signs all in Greek, all that we'll see
Blue sea around Corfu, then the mainland
Walking a great long gorge, hope that goes well
Then crossing into that strange old country
Albania, what will it be like, and when
We reach Tirana? Soon I'll know and tell...
Thursday 11 September 2014
2948 - What a performance!
Warm night, just got back from Bridgewater Hall
Where I witnessed a most emotional scene
The Kinshasa Symphony Orchestra, all
There, playing alongside the Halle, been
There many times but I have never seen
Anything quite like that, tears in my eyes
Some beautiful ladies gliding between
The regulars, in African dresses
Being treated to sounds of Sibelius
Berlioz and Beethoven, with them mingled
Their own music, players and choir, all being
Too much to take, knowing the sheer duress
Of living in the Congo, somehow still
Achieving this. Beautiful human beings
Where I witnessed a most emotional scene
The Kinshasa Symphony Orchestra, all
There, playing alongside the Halle, been
There many times but I have never seen
Anything quite like that, tears in my eyes
Some beautiful ladies gliding between
The regulars, in African dresses
Being treated to sounds of Sibelius
Berlioz and Beethoven, with them mingled
Their own music, players and choir, all being
Too much to take, knowing the sheer duress
Of living in the Congo, somehow still
Achieving this. Beautiful human beings
Wednesday 10 September 2014
2947 - Heavy old thing
Agreed Monday night, tonight we'll rehearse
Dermot and me, the comedy duo
Although I'd like if I could pop in first
To the new music open mic night, though
I may never perform there, as I'm so
Scared of playing live music to this day
But a local good music night is oh
So needed, especially if the hosts may
Provide a guitar? I hate lugging my
Heavy old thing around! Then get the purse
Out and sink some pints as we think of new
Funny scenarios, still wanna try
Though we can both do solo, and may, yes
It's fun though chatting and drinking, you know
Dermot and me, the comedy duo
Although I'd like if I could pop in first
To the new music open mic night, though
I may never perform there, as I'm so
Scared of playing live music to this day
But a local good music night is oh
So needed, especially if the hosts may
Provide a guitar? I hate lugging my
Heavy old thing around! Then get the purse
Out and sink some pints as we think of new
Funny scenarios, still wanna try
Though we can both do solo, and may, yes
It's fun though chatting and drinking, you know
2946 - Thoughts at speed
Oops, nearly forgot my sonnet again
Need to get to bed, knackered, yes indeed
I need to rest all of body and brain
I need to dream about planting a seed
I need people's bullshit like a nosebleed
Maybe in dreams they'll act more like they should
Made a few new friends today, I'm quite pleased
On Facebook, I mean, lol, not the real world
Well, one or two I met last night, Salford
(Or maybe Manchester?) - the Eagle Inn
Who are your friends? The ones when I'm in need
Maybe, or just the ones with whom a word
Can be shared, loud laughs following - yes, fun
Is the main thing I hope for. Thoughts at speed
Tue 9 Sep
Need to get to bed, knackered, yes indeed
I need to rest all of body and brain
I need to dream about planting a seed
I need people's bullshit like a nosebleed
Maybe in dreams they'll act more like they should
Made a few new friends today, I'm quite pleased
On Facebook, I mean, lol, not the real world
Well, one or two I met last night, Salford
(Or maybe Manchester?) - the Eagle Inn
Who are your friends? The ones when I'm in need
Maybe, or just the ones with whom a word
Can be shared, loud laughs following - yes, fun
Is the main thing I hope for. Thoughts at speed
Tue 9 Sep
Tuesday 9 September 2014
2945 - The Eagle Flies on Monday
It appears that England beat Switzerland
But more importantly, I had a good
Night out, at The Eagle, no, not a band
This time, but spoken word, yes, spoken word
One of the best nights on the scene I've heard
And seen with my own eyes, and taken part
In, although I was lucky, I was drawed
Out of the hat to perform, so I start
By bounding up the steps, then face toward
The audience, who at that night are just grand
Delivered my new poem which I would
Like to say was published, but it is not
But I only wrote it this last weekend
'Closing Time' was its name, it was good, bud
But more importantly, I had a good
Night out, at The Eagle, no, not a band
This time, but spoken word, yes, spoken word
One of the best nights on the scene I've heard
And seen with my own eyes, and taken part
In, although I was lucky, I was drawed
Out of the hat to perform, so I start
By bounding up the steps, then face toward
The audience, who at that night are just grand
Delivered my new poem which I would
Like to say was published, but it is not
But I only wrote it this last weekend
'Closing Time' was its name, it was good, bud
Monday 8 September 2014
2944 - Baby steps
It's late Sunday night, back from Whalley Range
Watched jazz at the Hillary Step, OK
The violinist, Olivia Moore was slightly strange
Playing St Saens style with two guys, but they
Were playing mid-twentieth century way
It livened up a bit towards the end
But by then I was on Facebook, sorry
To say. Earlier on, managed to amend
Friday night's pub draft of a new poem
I'd like to read tomorrow on the stage
At Evidently at the Eagle. Stayed
Away a couple months, but now all them
Need to hear my latest one out its cage
And set free to fly, up, up and away
Saturday 6 September 2014
2943 - The Big Apple (Rip-Off)
A humid day also a humorous
Day with Josie Wosie in Manchester
The north-west city that's most populous
As usual headed for the Apple store
Where she pleaded again and again for
Me to buy her an expensive i-Phone
The i-Phone 5C (colour, white). I'm poor
Doesn't she know that? Have pity on Tone
My liquid capital would all be blown
I said I'd go halves with her mum, Christmas
It's not so long to wait now, I told her
We're planning Christmas do's now, booking's done
By work colleagues. The Albert Square Chop House
Is where. And now it's time to play guitar
Day with Josie Wosie in Manchester
The north-west city that's most populous
As usual headed for the Apple store
Where she pleaded again and again for
Me to buy her an expensive i-Phone
The i-Phone 5C (colour, white). I'm poor
Doesn't she know that? Have pity on Tone
My liquid capital would all be blown
I said I'd go halves with her mum, Christmas
It's not so long to wait now, I told her
We're planning Christmas do's now, booking's done
By work colleagues. The Albert Square Chop House
Is where. And now it's time to play guitar
2942 - Weekend rules
It's late, gone 1a.m. out for a meal
With Dermot and Nancy, good fun it was
Then home, chat with Louis, keepin'it real
Whatever that means, now it's time for verse
Not quite Byronic, Tennysonian, worse
But a little bit Liz Barrett Browning
Hang on, I feel the need to dump, excuse
Me..... Ah, that's better, much more relaxing
As they say, things are better out than in
When I've done this, I'll drink some beer and feel
The weekend vibe washing over me, cos
It's my time now, not theirs, it's exciting
Just being your own master, the appeal
Of freedom, that feels so truly precious
Fri 5 Sept
With Dermot and Nancy, good fun it was
Then home, chat with Louis, keepin'it real
Whatever that means, now it's time for verse
Not quite Byronic, Tennysonian, worse
But a little bit Liz Barrett Browning
Hang on, I feel the need to dump, excuse
Me..... Ah, that's better, much more relaxing
As they say, things are better out than in
When I've done this, I'll drink some beer and feel
The weekend vibe washing over me, cos
It's my time now, not theirs, it's exciting
Just being your own master, the appeal
Of freedom, that feels so truly precious
Fri 5 Sept
Thursday 4 September 2014
2941 - Deathmocracy
The NATO summit at Cardiff today
Has been discussing Ukraine and Isis
Seems wars will never end after all, they
Just keep on keepin' on, and some say this
Is deliberate. Some people make profits
And they are powerful, they pay you well
If you serve them, not on the front line, that's
Paid poorly, but at the political
Level, where negotiations can entail
Whether 'we' should invade, bomb, or just pay
Others to fight, gather intelligence
And shoot each other, 'we' divide and rule
In the name of democracy, hurray
And religion of course, of course, of course
Has been discussing Ukraine and Isis
Seems wars will never end after all, they
Just keep on keepin' on, and some say this
Is deliberate. Some people make profits
And they are powerful, they pay you well
If you serve them, not on the front line, that's
Paid poorly, but at the political
Level, where negotiations can entail
Whether 'we' should invade, bomb, or just pay
Others to fight, gather intelligence
And shoot each other, 'we' divide and rule
In the name of democracy, hurray
And religion of course, of course, of course
Wednesday 3 September 2014
2940 - Dearth of mirth
What can you say about it? What can you?
What is 'it?' you ask. The Worst Comedy
Night in Salford, that's what. It's hard to do
But me and Dermot are qualified, see?
We've done it often enough to be free
With comments. Tonight we both turned up there
And did a double act, professionally
(Not.) Where was everyone? Seemed there was a
Generational divide, and the 'ha'
Was lost on some of them. But this is true
There few jokes to speak of, but quickly
In the interval, the noise of laughter
Reasserted itself, but not on cue
During the acts quiet reigned reliably
What is 'it?' you ask. The Worst Comedy
Night in Salford, that's what. It's hard to do
But me and Dermot are qualified, see?
We've done it often enough to be free
With comments. Tonight we both turned up there
And did a double act, professionally
(Not.) Where was everyone? Seemed there was a
Generational divide, and the 'ha'
Was lost on some of them. But this is true
There few jokes to speak of, but quickly
In the interval, the noise of laughter
Reasserted itself, but not on cue
During the acts quiet reigned reliably
2939 - London Day Five
Up early. Pearl's ice bucket challenge, then
Met her at New Cross Gate, after doctor's
Appointment. Went by bus to Greenwich in
The Green Cafe, then bought book, then onwards
To Blackheath via Greenwich Park, but there's
Steady rainfall. No coat. Bought more stuff there
Then train and bus back to Pearl's, then quick! Let's
Get to Euston! Bye, Pearl! Me and Jo were
On a delayed train to Wilmslow, Cheshire
Her mum collected her, then I then went
To Manchester, chores at home, then rehearsed
With Dermot tomorrow's regime, yes sir
Pints in the Salford Arms, then typed up in
My flat, emailed it to us both. Oh yes
About Mon 1 Sep
Met her at New Cross Gate, after doctor's
Appointment. Went by bus to Greenwich in
The Green Cafe, then bought book, then onwards
To Blackheath via Greenwich Park, but there's
Steady rainfall. No coat. Bought more stuff there
Then train and bus back to Pearl's, then quick! Let's
Get to Euston! Bye, Pearl! Me and Jo were
On a delayed train to Wilmslow, Cheshire
Her mum collected her, then I then went
To Manchester, chores at home, then rehearsed
With Dermot tomorrow's regime, yes sir
Pints in the Salford Arms, then typed up in
My flat, emailed it to us both. Oh yes
About Mon 1 Sep
2938 - London Day Four
Last full day in London, staying at Pearl's
After getting ready late, had breakfast
At '178' Cafe, New Cross, with piles
Of pancakes and bacon in syrup. Fast
Dash to the train station, Hampstead or bust
Met Orla, Pearl's pal, walked upon the heath
Nice pint outside, then once more caught the bus
This time to Regents Park. We had a brief
Walk round the gardens. Noticed that our teeth
Were starting to crave food, so walked a mile
To East Street oriental place, a most
Enjoyable sea food spicy soup! I believe
This was among the best things I've had. Swirls
Of flavour, orange soup. Oh taste of tastes!
About Sun 31 Aug
After getting ready late, had breakfast
At '178' Cafe, New Cross, with piles
Of pancakes and bacon in syrup. Fast
Dash to the train station, Hampstead or bust
Met Orla, Pearl's pal, walked upon the heath
Nice pint outside, then once more caught the bus
This time to Regents Park. We had a brief
Walk round the gardens. Noticed that our teeth
Were starting to crave food, so walked a mile
To East Street oriental place, a most
Enjoyable sea food spicy soup! I believe
This was among the best things I've had. Swirls
Of flavour, orange soup. Oh taste of tastes!
About Sun 31 Aug
2937 - London Day Three
A pleasant day, warm but not too sunny
Breakfast at our favourite cafe, New Cross
Then bus to Camberwell, then to Brixton
The place for fashion, reggae and all sorts
Electric Avenue, with market stalls
Bought a hat, wore it the rest of the day
Posed in Brixton, then Horniman House, all
The way to Forest Hill, then on our way
Again by bus to Lewisham, great way
To finish, lovely grub, and beer, hee hee
Beer cheese with croutons; then some crayfish balls
New Orleans-style. Good chat with Jo and P
Walked home from there to New Cross, chattily
Writing this, 'bout to watch 'Pushing Daisies'
About Sat 30 August
Breakfast at our favourite cafe, New Cross
Then bus to Camberwell, then to Brixton
The place for fashion, reggae and all sorts
Electric Avenue, with market stalls
Bought a hat, wore it the rest of the day
Posed in Brixton, then Horniman House, all
The way to Forest Hill, then on our way
Again by bus to Lewisham, great way
To finish, lovely grub, and beer, hee hee
Beer cheese with croutons; then some crayfish balls
New Orleans-style. Good chat with Jo and P
Walked home from there to New Cross, chattily
Writing this, 'bout to watch 'Pushing Daisies'
About Sat 30 August
2936 - London Day Two
First of all, Josephine she slept too long
The morning wasted, got fed up waiting
(Bit like her mother.) Finally got along
To Goldsmiths Cafe, welcome lunch feasting
Caught train and tube to Sloane Square, for walking
The King's Road, Chelsea. Crossed the Thames to walk
Battersea Park power station, crossing
The Thames again, through Pimlico, a fork
Right, and crossed Vauxhall Bridge, plenty of talk
Along the South Bank once more, with the throng
Waited for Pearl. Men are always waiting...
Meal at Strada. Pearl's good news about work
She's going to be a teacher from next spring
But where, she doesn't know. She'll be moving...
About Fri 29 August
The morning wasted, got fed up waiting
(Bit like her mother.) Finally got along
To Goldsmiths Cafe, welcome lunch feasting
Caught train and tube to Sloane Square, for walking
The King's Road, Chelsea. Crossed the Thames to walk
Battersea Park power station, crossing
The Thames again, through Pimlico, a fork
Right, and crossed Vauxhall Bridge, plenty of talk
Along the South Bank once more, with the throng
Waited for Pearl. Men are always waiting...
Meal at Strada. Pearl's good news about work
She's going to be a teacher from next spring
But where, she doesn't know. She'll be moving...
About Fri 29 August
2935 - London Day One
Woke at 6:30, train station by 8
Collected Jo at Wilmslow station, and
Hung around park and shops a while. Not late
For the London train. Good. At Euston, planned
Our journey to Deptford Bridge. Had to spend
A few hours in Deptford High Street, but liked
The small independent shops all around
Hardly any chain stores, I was surprised
But Pearl said this was a typical sight
In South London. Food shops, fish shops, it's great
Pearl joined us at the 'Big Red' restaurant
Which is an old double-decker bus, right?
55 quid expenditure, oh shit
But good value. My pasta tasted grand
About Thur 28 August
Collected Jo at Wilmslow station, and
Hung around park and shops a while. Not late
For the London train. Good. At Euston, planned
Our journey to Deptford Bridge. Had to spend
A few hours in Deptford High Street, but liked
The small independent shops all around
Hardly any chain stores, I was surprised
But Pearl said this was a typical sight
In South London. Food shops, fish shops, it's great
Pearl joined us at the 'Big Red' restaurant
Which is an old double-decker bus, right?
55 quid expenditure, oh shit
But good value. My pasta tasted grand
About Thur 28 August
Wednesday 27 August 2014
2934 - Girls United
Very tired, quite a late night, guitar play
Then a drink, then late night conversation
So instead of rehearsing comedy
I'm staying in. Just as well. My alarm
Is set for 6:30. Must catch the train
From Piccadilly at 8 to Wilmslow
Collecting Josie with her bags, then stayin'
Around the shops and cafes til we go
To London on the midday train. I so
Enjoy exploring the capital. They
(My two daughters) like having good old fun
When they meet all too rarely. I don't know
What we'll do yet, but we will have good days
This week Jo's on the way towards woman
Then a drink, then late night conversation
So instead of rehearsing comedy
I'm staying in. Just as well. My alarm
Is set for 6:30. Must catch the train
From Piccadilly at 8 to Wilmslow
Collecting Josie with her bags, then stayin'
Around the shops and cafes til we go
To London on the midday train. I so
Enjoy exploring the capital. They
(My two daughters) like having good old fun
When they meet all too rarely. I don't know
What we'll do yet, but we will have good days
This week Jo's on the way towards woman
Tuesday 26 August 2014
2933 - The Bucket of Water Sonnet
Last night's ice bucket challenge was good fun
Nancy and Dermot did well, have to say
And a fun time was had by everyone
Hope we weren't too rude for Yanira, eh?
She's old enough to hear that stuff, surely
Woke in the night a few times, so bit tired
And that brings us sonnetly to today
Fairly interesting day at work - quite good
To have Tracey and Julie back, both buoyed
Up by just-finished holidays, one in
Italy, one in Disneyworld USA
Just one more work day, then me and Jo head
Just like this time last year down to London
By train to stay with Pearl for a few days
Nancy and Dermot did well, have to say
And a fun time was had by everyone
Hope we weren't too rude for Yanira, eh?
She's old enough to hear that stuff, surely
Woke in the night a few times, so bit tired
And that brings us sonnetly to today
Fairly interesting day at work - quite good
To have Tracey and Julie back, both buoyed
Up by just-finished holidays, one in
Italy, one in Disneyworld USA
Just one more work day, then me and Jo head
Just like this time last year down to London
By train to stay with Pearl for a few days
2932 - Ice ice babies
A fun day, first of all my short stories
Then ironing, then got inspiration
To write, first time for a while, poetry
Not particularly clever, but on
The button, rhythmically. And then the fun
Continued, listening to Symphony Nine
By Mahler, one of my faves, and then down
Town, met Nancy, she was nervous, the time
Drew close to the Ice Bucket Challenge, mine
As posted yesterday on Facebook. he's
Late, we thought, where's Dermot, but the tension
Relieved when he arrived. The film went fine
On Nancy's phone of them both water-freezed
A few more drinks, a meal, and day was done
Mon 25 August
Then ironing, then got inspiration
To write, first time for a while, poetry
Not particularly clever, but on
The button, rhythmically. And then the fun
Continued, listening to Symphony Nine
By Mahler, one of my faves, and then down
Town, met Nancy, she was nervous, the time
Drew close to the Ice Bucket Challenge, mine
As posted yesterday on Facebook. he's
Late, we thought, where's Dermot, but the tension
Relieved when he arrived. The film went fine
On Nancy's phone of them both water-freezed
A few more drinks, a meal, and day was done
Mon 25 August
Sunday 24 August 2014
2931 - Bucketheads
Woke up quite early, bit tired, thinking 'bout
The ice bucket challenge I had to do
Been nominated by Martina out
In Bratislava, very surprised too
There was research and purchases, I knew
Bought bucket from Sainsburys, but the ice
Would have to wait till the waking of Lou
Because I've no freezer, so went out twice
To the supermarket. It was a nice
Big bag of ice, nowhere to store it. Showed
Lou how to video on my phone, then cue
The embarrassing filming, with the eyes
Of neighbours maybe on us all about
Lots of reaction. Tomorrow - part two!
The ice bucket challenge I had to do
Been nominated by Martina out
In Bratislava, very surprised too
There was research and purchases, I knew
Bought bucket from Sainsburys, but the ice
Would have to wait till the waking of Lou
Because I've no freezer, so went out twice
To the supermarket. It was a nice
Big bag of ice, nowhere to store it. Showed
Lou how to video on my phone, then cue
The embarrassing filming, with the eyes
Of neighbours maybe on us all about
Lots of reaction. Tomorrow - part two!
2930 - Big Apple
Today, Saturday, got to Jo's early
11.15, then train into town
I'd seen some Gay Pride floats getting ready
For their big day, with sunshine shining down
But once we got to town, we weren't around
The parade, we were in the Arndale once
Again. Avoided spending for once, found
That Jo had no argument in her bonce
For needing anything, so she ensconced
Herself in the Apple store, fantasy
That she might get from me a new i-Phone
Don't think so somehow! Ate crap, McDonalds
Which wasn't good. After I said goodbye
Went home, strummed, watched footy with Lou, that's sound
Sat 23 August
11.15, then train into town
I'd seen some Gay Pride floats getting ready
For their big day, with sunshine shining down
But once we got to town, we weren't around
The parade, we were in the Arndale once
Again. Avoided spending for once, found
That Jo had no argument in her bonce
For needing anything, so she ensconced
Herself in the Apple store, fantasy
That she might get from me a new i-Phone
Don't think so somehow! Ate crap, McDonalds
Which wasn't good. After I said goodbye
Went home, strummed, watched footy with Lou, that's sound
Sat 23 August
2929 - Forgot again!
Oh dear, I forgot to post a sonnet
Yesterday, I don't know why, no excuse
What I remember was I worked at it
At work, and went home, then I played some tunes
On the guitar, some beers on the go, lose
Track of time, I guess, Louis was there, I
Watched some old Kate Bush stuff on TV, whose
Stuff struck me as great, and then late, ate my
Tea, dinner, or whatever you call my
Late night meal, then to bed, and I forget
Just when I forgot about daily verse
This really is pie in the sky and eye
Stuff, I'm sorry for this useless old shit
I had no idea I'd forgot my news
About Fri 22 August
Yesterday, I don't know why, no excuse
What I remember was I worked at it
At work, and went home, then I played some tunes
On the guitar, some beers on the go, lose
Track of time, I guess, Louis was there, I
Watched some old Kate Bush stuff on TV, whose
Stuff struck me as great, and then late, ate my
Tea, dinner, or whatever you call my
Late night meal, then to bed, and I forget
Just when I forgot about daily verse
This really is pie in the sky and eye
Stuff, I'm sorry for this useless old shit
I had no idea I'd forgot my news
About Fri 22 August
Thursday 21 August 2014
2928 - Thick pigeon shit
Oh pigeon, squatting smugly on the branch
Opposite my balcony, where you once
Squatted and shat profusely with your haunch
On my exterior light. Not just my hands
But even sharp-pronged metallic objects
Could not deter you, my return from work
Tarnished by its brandishing at your ass
To no avail. Next day once more you'd park
Your butt on my square light-cover and look
Down with superiority, approach
Of human owner wryly observed, hunch
I might not be pleased, too right. Well now, fuck
Off, enjoy that thin branch, I have finished
Hosting your ass. Look at me if you want
I removed the square light-cover on which the pigeon used to perch, about a year ago, and now the fat bastard has to make do with a relatively thin branch. Ha!
Opposite my balcony, where you once
Squatted and shat profusely with your haunch
On my exterior light. Not just my hands
But even sharp-pronged metallic objects
Could not deter you, my return from work
Tarnished by its brandishing at your ass
To no avail. Next day once more you'd park
Your butt on my square light-cover and look
Down with superiority, approach
Of human owner wryly observed, hunch
I might not be pleased, too right. Well now, fuck
Off, enjoy that thin branch, I have finished
Hosting your ass. Look at me if you want
I removed the square light-cover on which the pigeon used to perch, about a year ago, and now the fat bastard has to make do with a relatively thin branch. Ha!
Wednesday 20 August 2014
2927 - Tax and Dermy
I lay awake at times, as it got light
And by the time I had to get up, was
Still sleepy. At work, found, to my delight
Some new courses for Microsoft Office
2013, which means I can practice
Excel and other stuff while I've got time
In the afternoon, chatted to two guys
Who've just arrived this week, not in my team
But Environmental Taxes. Told them
A bit more about our work, some insights
Into Oils in particular, my years
Of experience appreciated by some!
Decided this evening too tired to write
Discussed with Derm our comedy futures
And by the time I had to get up, was
Still sleepy. At work, found, to my delight
Some new courses for Microsoft Office
2013, which means I can practice
Excel and other stuff while I've got time
In the afternoon, chatted to two guys
Who've just arrived this week, not in my team
But Environmental Taxes. Told them
A bit more about our work, some insights
Into Oils in particular, my years
Of experience appreciated by some!
Decided this evening too tired to write
Discussed with Derm our comedy futures
Tuesday 19 August 2014
2926 - Animal nightlife
Well where is Louis, when's he gonna show
He's been at his Mum's flat since Friday, now
It's Tuesday evening. He stayed at hers so
He could feed the cat while Vee B went down
To London to visit Miss P around
The capital's top spots and whatnot, see
Mind you, Lou also thought that he had found
Some peace and quiet, an opportunity
To write in a comfy flat, all lonely
And undisturbed by me, and yes I know
That does appeal to a writer. But how
Much longer will it be before I see
Him come through that door? The days go by slow
As I wait for the next trip - London! Wow.
He's been at his Mum's flat since Friday, now
It's Tuesday evening. He stayed at hers so
He could feed the cat while Vee B went down
To London to visit Miss P around
The capital's top spots and whatnot, see
Mind you, Lou also thought that he had found
Some peace and quiet, an opportunity
To write in a comfy flat, all lonely
And undisturbed by me, and yes I know
That does appeal to a writer. But how
Much longer will it be before I see
Him come through that door? The days go by slow
As I wait for the next trip - London! Wow.
Monday 18 August 2014
2925 - Write on, man, write on
Hee hee, I'm feeling pretty good, now I've
Just unexpectedly written some short
Story stuff, not just any kind of stuff
This feeling of achievement can't be bought
Not bad after a day's work, when one ought
To be too knackered, but no, I'm alright
Shopped at lunchtime, that also meant I cut
Down the length of the working day a bit
Got curry-coated peanuts and, I might
Add, coconut flakes - eating both I love
Both are this year's discoveries, and I've sort
Of switched from bread to Ryvita. Marmite
Goes on those, not on starchy bread, yes, bruv
And now to practise guitar, strum and strut
Just unexpectedly written some short
Story stuff, not just any kind of stuff
This feeling of achievement can't be bought
Not bad after a day's work, when one ought
To be too knackered, but no, I'm alright
Shopped at lunchtime, that also meant I cut
Down the length of the working day a bit
Got curry-coated peanuts and, I might
Add, coconut flakes - eating both I love
Both are this year's discoveries, and I've sort
Of switched from bread to Ryvita. Marmite
Goes on those, not on starchy bread, yes, bruv
And now to practise guitar, strum and strut
Sunday 17 August 2014
2924 - Night time ain't the write time
My brain's fried, but I wrote more short stories
Earlier on, that often surprisingly
Tires the mind, though the body seems at ease
And yet it feels like I've put my body
Through a big workout, but just mentally
These stories would be good to read sometime
But getting them published would most please me
I really must try to work on them, find
Regular spaces of quality time
My only recent excuse - holidays
And also being tired after work, maybe
Not really tired, just less creative mind
In the evening than morning. Saturdays
I go see Josie. That just leaves Sunday!
Earlier on, that often surprisingly
Tires the mind, though the body seems at ease
And yet it feels like I've put my body
Through a big workout, but just mentally
These stories would be good to read sometime
But getting them published would most please me
I really must try to work on them, find
Regular spaces of quality time
My only recent excuse - holidays
And also being tired after work, maybe
Not really tired, just less creative mind
In the evening than morning. Saturdays
I go see Josie. That just leaves Sunday!
Saturday 16 August 2014
2923 - Reunited
Early to see Josie, she's not ready
They lie in real late these days, at weekends
Went shopping in Manchester again, she
Is good now at persuading me to spend
Today, a Hype bag and Nike trainers, and
I bought myself green trousers and a blue
T-shirt from Officers Club where I find
Lots of good cheap clothes like Primark but few
People in comparison in the queue
We also ate at new Rowntree Cafe
Near the Arndale. But Louis' paying rent
Now he's working, so that's why I thought 'You
Can afford all this!' Premier League's back. See
All the United fans all back again
They lie in real late these days, at weekends
Went shopping in Manchester again, she
Is good now at persuading me to spend
Today, a Hype bag and Nike trainers, and
I bought myself green trousers and a blue
T-shirt from Officers Club where I find
Lots of good cheap clothes like Primark but few
People in comparison in the queue
We also ate at new Rowntree Cafe
Near the Arndale. But Louis' paying rent
Now he's working, so that's why I thought 'You
Can afford all this!' Premier League's back. See
All the United fans all back again
Friday 15 August 2014
2922 - Happiness is not a warm sex pistol
Friday night, but not spent in out-patients
A reference to a Smiths song, by the way
Not 'By The Way' - that was by someone else
The Red Hot Chilli Peppers. Yesterday
(The Beatles) I had a red hot curry
Tim Curry, Tim Rice, Andrew Lloyd-Webber
No, they weren't there, that was merely word-play
My sex was on fire, and I'm no fibber
Cos when I got home, pissing hurt. Bieber
May piss you off, but he still has his fans
Though most are extractors, detractors they
Are many, when he's like an amoeba
Camper Van Beethoven spends time in tents
But me, tonight, at home is where I'll stay
A reference to a Smiths song, by the way
Not 'By The Way' - that was by someone else
The Red Hot Chilli Peppers. Yesterday
(The Beatles) I had a red hot curry
Tim Curry, Tim Rice, Andrew Lloyd-Webber
No, they weren't there, that was merely word-play
My sex was on fire, and I'm no fibber
Cos when I got home, pissing hurt. Bieber
May piss you off, but he still has his fans
Though most are extractors, detractors they
Are many, when he's like an amoeba
Camper Van Beethoven spends time in tents
But me, tonight, at home is where I'll stay
Thursday 14 August 2014
2921 - Curry worries
It's getting late, back from a hot curry
In the company of Fat Roland's mates
It was a lamb and garlic, they asked me
How hot, so I replied maximum heat
The waiter was funny, they're often sweet
These fools that ask for a hot one, but then
They can't take it, but my mouth won't be beat
It took me a while, and I was gaspin'
A bit, swigged beer, but that wasn't helpin'
It was Fat Roland's 41st, memory
Awoken on the walk to Rusholme, eighties
Hangouts aplenty, many of them gone
The Clarence is now the Phoenix, he he
It rose from the Irish ashes - that's fate
In the company of Fat Roland's mates
It was a lamb and garlic, they asked me
How hot, so I replied maximum heat
The waiter was funny, they're often sweet
These fools that ask for a hot one, but then
They can't take it, but my mouth won't be beat
It took me a while, and I was gaspin'
A bit, swigged beer, but that wasn't helpin'
It was Fat Roland's 41st, memory
Awoken on the walk to Rusholme, eighties
Hangouts aplenty, many of them gone
The Clarence is now the Phoenix, he he
It rose from the Irish ashes - that's fate
Wednesday 13 August 2014
2920 - While the sun shines
Came home early, got quite a few things done
Nothing interesting, cleaning, ironing shirts
Getting a little warmed up, the sun shone
Through the window of the flat, its rays hurt
Magnified in intensity, they cut
The skin in tiny ways you can't help feel
Nevertheless, I still had time to put
On the guitar and play, and had a real
Go at some Magazine tracks with appeal
That I knew from years ago, as a son
Sitting in the back room, speakers were shit
But still I soaked it all up, tried to fill
The gaps in my mind that are still not gone
Though I have learned to keep them more secret
Nothing interesting, cleaning, ironing shirts
Getting a little warmed up, the sun shone
Through the window of the flat, its rays hurt
Magnified in intensity, they cut
The skin in tiny ways you can't help feel
Nevertheless, I still had time to put
On the guitar and play, and had a real
Go at some Magazine tracks with appeal
That I knew from years ago, as a son
Sitting in the back room, speakers were shit
But still I soaked it all up, tried to fill
The gaps in my mind that are still not gone
Though I have learned to keep them more secret
Tuesday 12 August 2014
2919 - Goodbyeeeee
Oh well, here we are, one more day is gone
Everyone's agonising over the
Death of Robin Williams, yes, he was one
Of a kind, stand-up genius, what can you
Say? Apart from that, life goes on, oh yeah
What is there to say? Nothing, I would say
So let's carry on, try not to despair
No, let's instead try hard to say hurray
Why, I'm not sure, but we are here today
So while we're here, we must just carry on
Of course, there have been great people, no more
With us, but there are new people always
Let's look forward, let's not worry, move on
And so a day ends, does anyone care?
Everyone's agonising over the
Death of Robin Williams, yes, he was one
Of a kind, stand-up genius, what can you
Say? Apart from that, life goes on, oh yeah
What is there to say? Nothing, I would say
So let's carry on, try not to despair
No, let's instead try hard to say hurray
Why, I'm not sure, but we are here today
So while we're here, we must just carry on
Of course, there have been great people, no more
With us, but there are new people always
Let's look forward, let's not worry, move on
And so a day ends, does anyone care?
Monday 11 August 2014
2918 - It noh funny
Very low on energy today, as
I was yesterday evening. I have got
A bug. I developed mild earache this
Afternoon at work. That's something I've not
Had for many years! Don't think I will jot
Down a comedy routine for tomorrow
At the King's Arms, would rather just chill out
Except I've arranged a meeting, you know
With John L at the Salford Arms to go
Over our Greek odyssey plans, discuss
Our Vikos Gorge walk, and how we might get
To Albania. And we can talk also
About our respective recent trips, his
To Germany, mine Hungary (when hot!)
I was yesterday evening. I have got
A bug. I developed mild earache this
Afternoon at work. That's something I've not
Had for many years! Don't think I will jot
Down a comedy routine for tomorrow
At the King's Arms, would rather just chill out
Except I've arranged a meeting, you know
With John L at the Salford Arms to go
Over our Greek odyssey plans, discuss
Our Vikos Gorge walk, and how we might get
To Albania. And we can talk also
About our respective recent trips, his
To Germany, mine Hungary (when hot!)
Sunday 10 August 2014
2917 - Stationery to stationery
Overdid it somewhat last night, I think!
Woke at eleven, was late for the train
To see Josie. I briefly thought a think
That I should call it off, what with the rain
Forecast from the Bertha ex-hurricane
But I wanted to see my little belle
And we had a nice day. Arndale again
Buying her back to school stationery, full
Bags from two shops, stuff for art, maths and all
Wanted a cafe meal, keep in the pink
No fast food, not today, just for a change
But went to Wagamama. Really full
After my dish and also helped to sink
Some of Josie's big soup! But can't complain!!
Woke at eleven, was late for the train
To see Josie. I briefly thought a think
That I should call it off, what with the rain
Forecast from the Bertha ex-hurricane
But I wanted to see my little belle
And we had a nice day. Arndale again
Buying her back to school stationery, full
Bags from two shops, stuff for art, maths and all
Wanted a cafe meal, keep in the pink
No fast food, not today, just for a change
But went to Wagamama. Really full
After my dish and also helped to sink
Some of Josie's big soup! But can't complain!!
2916 - I am right!
Today was Saturday, oh yes it was
A crazy day, I settled down to write
Short stories fit for kids, yet those stories
Also have meanings for adults, they might
We never know what people might like, quite
Lowbrow sometimes, but never give in to
Commerciality, that's not me, slight
Benefit briefly but not long term. Who
Gives a damn apart from money men. Pooh!
I am me, not you, if you don't like, shush
I'd rather remain free to scale the height
And if I don't succeed, I'll just say shoo!
I don't give a fuck for your shit business
The only thing I care for is what's right
A crazy day, I settled down to write
Short stories fit for kids, yet those stories
Also have meanings for adults, they might
We never know what people might like, quite
Lowbrow sometimes, but never give in to
Commerciality, that's not me, slight
Benefit briefly but not long term. Who
Gives a damn apart from money men. Pooh!
I am me, not you, if you don't like, shush
I'd rather remain free to scale the height
And if I don't succeed, I'll just say shoo!
I don't give a fuck for your shit business
The only thing I care for is what's right
Friday 8 August 2014
2915 - It's a Sunni day
And now on to today, what happened next?
How about a quick news round-up, you say?
The main story - the US bombs Iraq's
Invading Islamic State force as they
Drive out ethnic minorities, the way
Almost clear for mass ethnic cleansing and
Unopposed Sunni Islam holding sway
As if there's that much difference from that and
Shia Islam, or Christian groups. The sand
Does not distinguish their feet. Gaza's fixed
Grimly for more Israeli rockets. Stay
Cool, Manchester's protesters. Make your stand
Peacefully about this far-off conflict
Finally, UK football's back today...
How about a quick news round-up, you say?
The main story - the US bombs Iraq's
Invading Islamic State force as they
Drive out ethnic minorities, the way
Almost clear for mass ethnic cleansing and
Unopposed Sunni Islam holding sway
As if there's that much difference from that and
Shia Islam, or Christian groups. The sand
Does not distinguish their feet. Gaza's fixed
Grimly for more Israeli rockets. Stay
Cool, Manchester's protesters. Make your stand
Peacefully about this far-off conflict
Finally, UK football's back today...
2914 - What happened next?!...
A late delivery of yesterday's verse
So sorry, but it slipped my mind again
Not drunk, didn't go out, no real excuse
For letting this duty slip from my brain
So what happened yesterday? Let me strain
My mind. Oh yes, the main achievement was
Thinking of punchlines, hope it's not in vain
Punchlines for mine and Dermot's sketch, because
The aim's to 'make 'em laugh' without much pause
And not to make them stare, all tense and terse
I sent the lines to Dermot, then restrained
End to the evening. High society whores
Flocked to Rasputin's side, so the book says
Or implies. The tale draws towards its end...
About Thur 7 August
So sorry, but it slipped my mind again
Not drunk, didn't go out, no real excuse
For letting this duty slip from my brain
So what happened yesterday? Let me strain
My mind. Oh yes, the main achievement was
Thinking of punchlines, hope it's not in vain
Punchlines for mine and Dermot's sketch, because
The aim's to 'make 'em laugh' without much pause
And not to make them stare, all tense and terse
I sent the lines to Dermot, then restrained
End to the evening. High society whores
Flocked to Rasputin's side, so the book says
Or implies. The tale draws towards its end...
About Thur 7 August
Thursday 7 August 2014
2913 - Etch a sketch
Despite everything, I will post my post
I'm not sure what to say, as it is late
But basically I'll say what is the most
In my brain at this late hour, trust to fate
Well I met up with Dermot about eight
To resurrect our partnership, and it
Went quite well, swapped ideas, had a debate
About a new comedy scene, a skit
It's all been done before, but some minutes
Were spent and then we agreed we could coast
Along with a sketch in which we relate
A punchline incorrectly, then we hit
The audience with the formula that shows
That we have a good act that they won't hate
Wed 6 August
I'm not sure what to say, as it is late
But basically I'll say what is the most
In my brain at this late hour, trust to fate
Well I met up with Dermot about eight
To resurrect our partnership, and it
Went quite well, swapped ideas, had a debate
About a new comedy scene, a skit
It's all been done before, but some minutes
Were spent and then we agreed we could coast
Along with a sketch in which we relate
A punchline incorrectly, then we hit
The audience with the formula that shows
That we have a good act that they won't hate
Wed 6 August
Tuesday 5 August 2014
2912 - Ironing Man
Fun fun fun, just realised what I could do
This evening. Ironing! Listen to Mahler
Read a biog of Rasputin, then you
Know what? That's it! I'll hit the sack, that's where!
But so what, all that's worth doing, can't share
Excitement every day, so let's just chill
That's what most do anyway. If not, they're
Dying to get the chance. Ain't got the will
To write short stories tonight, I am still
Too tired for that. Best wait til mind's like new
And thoughts are golden, or at least silver
Til then, iron shirts, Mahler's Third, all is well
And by the way, a big hearty fuck you
To all the boring people everywhere!
This evening. Ironing! Listen to Mahler
Read a biog of Rasputin, then you
Know what? That's it! I'll hit the sack, that's where!
But so what, all that's worth doing, can't share
Excitement every day, so let's just chill
That's what most do anyway. If not, they're
Dying to get the chance. Ain't got the will
To write short stories tonight, I am still
Too tired for that. Best wait til mind's like new
And thoughts are golden, or at least silver
Til then, iron shirts, Mahler's Third, all is well
And by the way, a big hearty fuck you
To all the boring people everywhere!
Monday 4 August 2014
2911 - Holy days
So what about today? Well I was back
In the office, not been there for two weeks
Only saw Hazel for one day, as luck
Would have it, cos she's off for one more break
So soon after Menorca, going to take
A week in Malta, would you believe it
Still, soon enough I'll make the same mistake
(Not) and have fun away from work and shit
The main difficulty's to reignite
That deadened memory of the bric a brac
Of short-term technicalities that flake
Off from the brain on holiday, excite-
ment and memories replace their dull dark
Shadowy valleys with sharp sunlit peaks
In the office, not been there for two weeks
Only saw Hazel for one day, as luck
Would have it, cos she's off for one more break
So soon after Menorca, going to take
A week in Malta, would you believe it
Still, soon enough I'll make the same mistake
(Not) and have fun away from work and shit
The main difficulty's to reignite
That deadened memory of the bric a brac
Of short-term technicalities that flake
Off from the brain on holiday, excite-
ment and memories replace their dull dark
Shadowy valleys with sharp sunlit peaks
2910 - Got to get away
Oops I forgot it again, so sorry
Now I've got to remember yesterday
Oh yeah, that's right, I went to see Josie
It was warm, mainly sunny. Made our way
To Manchester, not sure what game to play
Saw demonstrators and heard speakers crowd
Into Piccadilly Gardens to flay
Verbally Israel's rockets raining loud
And fiery upon Gaza, like some God
From the Old Testament. Jo, uneasy
Asks if we can get far from there, away
From what she felt might turn violent. We should
Not have done, but we went to Mac's, cheaply
Eating and drinking, not to worry, eh?
About Sun 3 August
Now I've got to remember yesterday
Oh yeah, that's right, I went to see Josie
It was warm, mainly sunny. Made our way
To Manchester, not sure what game to play
Saw demonstrators and heard speakers crowd
Into Piccadilly Gardens to flay
Verbally Israel's rockets raining loud
And fiery upon Gaza, like some God
From the Old Testament. Jo, uneasy
Asks if we can get far from there, away
From what she felt might turn violent. We should
Not have done, but we went to Mac's, cheaply
Eating and drinking, not to worry, eh?
About Sun 3 August
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