24. Train Journey

Travelling by train, I put down my book to watch
the many scenes that pass beyond the glass:

distant crofts give way to barren hills
where black faced sheep graze slowly,

further on, with tangled mane and mud caked coat,
a highland pony dozes, then flicks flies,

more miles ahead, shrinking fields fail to hold back
marching lines of black tarmac

well kept lawns hold smiling children who throw balls
to wagging dogs waiting for Sunday roasts,

the final act takes place on littered streets of shattered glass
where youths mouth obscenities at girls who pass and giggle.

The journey ends, I close the book, so too these moments
stolen from everyday lives, unconnected and unaware.