John Scully (19th October 1947 / London)

That day again,
Every year just the same,
Repeats on telly
Visits from Vi and Nellie,
Mum's sister-in-laws.
Turkey, sprouts and cauliflower,
Diamond socks from Marks,
'You're not off already
It's only four
Say goodbye then, and close the door'.

I walked out without a proper coat
or 'sensible shoes', as mum called them.
No job, no prospects,
'No nice girl then? ' asked Nellie
behind my back
winking at Vi as they sipped mum's sherry.
Heavens, what would they think
If they knew,
I've gone to wait my turn
In the soup kitchen queue.