(The challenge, set by Rasa Kabaila, was to write a poem with the word “crush” within it.  It was supposed to be a 10-line poem but I always write too much!)

 

Mention ‘retirement’ to the working poor,

And they will swear and go purple in the face!

"What lounging around watching day-time TV?" 

I must tell them, sternly, this is not the case!

 

We are within a remorseless crusher

Between two lovely, nonogenarian mothers

And a darling cherub, who is growing wiser, 

Whilst performing on a new stage every day! 

​​​

 

Everyone knows we have our ‘retirement time.’

“Of course, you can do it!”      What can we say?

“Yes, we can help you, but it will be a crush!”

No wonder our brains are now going to mush.