That tinderbox summer: underground fires’

subversive routes, breaking cover,

crackling heaths and pinewoods.

Blackened commons, smoke-cloaked motorway.

Sudden, meaningful quarrels; soon

you’d be heading north to university.

 

Fog-stalled autumn: drinks half-price

in freshers’ week, tempted by new flavours.

Down south I couldn’t start, awaited repairs.

Long, cross-country trips on stopping trains.

Returning late to a disapproving roommate;

something jeopardised, something gained.

 

Winter’s tale: clinging scent of the sugar factory,

ancient streets loaded with history

and pubs. My kinda town. Sneaking out of your room

before the cleaners came in. Year of the Cat

on the jukebox in the bus station bar.

Waiting for the overnight coach back south,

 

certain I’d soon be heading north for good,

job in the offing. I’d tracked you down.