Migrate from black and dusty city streets
Into the lush green meadow-grass of Kent.
Sit side by side beside a struggling stream,
And with a silent kiss upon her cheek
Caress your gentle lover.
Just touch her hair, don’t try to smother
Her with kisses.
Remember all the time on Earth is your’s.
Pause now and watch the kingfisher in motion,
Or silent trout, there, basking in the sun.
Linger o’er lunch, as in the Rubayat
"Here with a book of verse beneath the bough,
A flask of wine, a loaf of bread and thou."
Now walk a while beneath the trees,
Beside the river bank in warm-cool breeze.
Whisper sweet nothings in her ear,
Then stop again, yes, over there.
Beneath that weeping willow on the bank
Open your heart to her.
Listen to the music of her voice
As she gently talks of love.
Then, when the shadows lengthen as the sun sinks low,
And gnats play on the surface of the stream,
And fish are jumping in the evening cool,
Arise and homeward wend your way.

*****

After you’ve driven for nearly an hour
You pass the Bromley water tower.
Third on the left and there on the right
The Rose and Crown comes into sight
You help her out of the little car
And Oh how proud you feel you are
To arrive at the pub with a girl like this.
You’re beginning to know the meaning of bliss.
Into the lounge and up to the bar.
The people all wonder who you are –
The debonair man and the girl in blue.
The barman comes over, and that’s your cue.
"A gin and It, and a pint of beer.
Is that alright for you my dear?"
She nods her head and you pay for the drinks,
The till is rung and the barman winks.
You take a table near to the door –
For Heaven’s sake, don’t be a bore!
There’s too much to lose now you’ve got this far,
A cigarette, and there you are,
Relaxed and happy without a care
Save for your loved one seated there……

©  Michael J. Mason 2000