Telephones

TELEPHONES

I do not like telephones
They intrude
into rooms
demanding an answer
there and then
disrupting any action taking place
not giving time
for reflection
demanding their answer
straight off the cuff
to any speaker
who has the coins in his pocket
and a finger to dial
They have their uses
for speedy communication
of messages
I'll admit
But give me
the leisurely pace of the post
allowing time
for the formulation
of precise answers
the right words
to convey intended meanings
I don't like telephones
Their brrr brr brr
reverberates upon ears
demandingly
intruding
on unsuspecting ears

© GERALD ENGLAND

Composed: Sheffield, 23rd March 1971

Publications

1971 Context (UK)
1973 ENVIRONMENT (Thames Ditton, Ember Press)
1980 THE RAINBOW AND OTHER POEMS (Heckmondwyke, Fighting Cock Press)

Surfeit

SURFEIT

 A surfeit of everything
              of love
                     of wine
                             of music
                                      and of chocolates
              of fame
                      of food
                              of energy
                                      and of cigarettes
              of ambition
                        of doughnuts
                                      of power
                                              and of soup
              finally sapped his strength

              A surfeit
                       of death

© GERALD ENGLAND

Composed: Sheffield, 24th January 1971

1971 Context (UK)
1988 Piddiddle (USA)
1988 Waterways (USA)
1992 STEALING KISSES (Hyde, New Hope International)