On the Albion terrace
bird-shaped kites
are in an agony as they are knocked around
by brilliant breezes.
Bandstand—mother of pearl—
splashed in water
carelessly mixed and scuffed.
And everywhere, Dickens:
1839 and 1840
on the stone outside.
1845, 1849. 1859.
Wife not mentioned of course.
2018:
a bevy of tourists
a couple of retirement age
out for the afternoon
a woman with a pint.
And me.
Writing this on a table
before taking my cup and saucer
carefully back to the bar.
© 2020 Carolyn Oulton
Carolyn Oulton
Professor of Victorian Literature at Cantebury Christ Church University. Publications incllude Accidental Fruit (Worple Press).
Join the Discussion
Please ensure all comments abide by the Thanet Writers Comments Policy