Fireworks 1958 Poem by Terry Collett

Fireworks
Benny's old man said
for you to use and enjoy
but be careful.

So Benny
and his sister Naomi
went down
the concrete stairs
of the flats
and into the Square
with the small box
of fireworks.

Benny lit them
they
and others nearby
watched and were thrilled.

After it was over
the other kids clapped.

Then Hem
Lydia's brother
threw a banger
at Naomi
she screamed
and Benny chased Hem
but Hem ran fast.

He ran through
the Square
down
the slope
leading
to Rockingham Street.

Benny was on his tail
filled with anger
that Hem had thrown
the firework at his sister.

Hem panicked
when he saw Benny
was on his tail
ran across the road
without looking
but nothing was coming.

Benny ran after him
cornered him
against the wall
of the big factory
pinned him there
punched him
with fury.

Hem pleaded
just for a bit of fun
but Benny whacked him
until his anger had seeped.

He walked away
leaving the boy
on the ground
holding his stomach.

The evening was
creeping in
the sky darkening.

Benny walked back
up the slope
looking behind
at the big
moaning dope.