MOTHERS RUIN! Your father, said my mother, Is permanently tired He lay so still on the sofa son I thought that he d expired. But prompt at five that s opening time He got up like a lark Rising like a Frankenstein From a million volted spark. Then down

MOTHERS' RUIN!

Your father, said my mother,

Is permanently tired

He lay so still on the sofa son

I thought that he'd expired.

But prompt at five that's opening time

He got up like a lark

Rising like a Frankenstein

From a million volted spark.

Then down again to his boozing mates

With not a thought for me

But he's always been the same that man

Ten pints and a pie for tea.

He always says I won't be long

So put the kettle on

Then he comes rolling home after time

Singing where have all the flowers gone.

He pokes his head around the door

Says love you're not annoyed?

You know I hate missing Eastenders

But I'm afraid I was deloyed.

He then says socialising can kill a man

And collapses in a chair

Then I get mad and go to bed

Ah - but I put a blanket on him there.

PETER FLOYD

Crouch End

You can submit an original poem by writing to Poetry Corner, Ham&High Series, 100a Avenue Road, Hampstead NW3 3HF, or send it by email to letters@hamhigh.co.uk.