Stephen Knight

My boredom chock-a-block with furniture – the desk in bits, the sofa’s cushions cluttering the bed, drawers shoved beneath the dresser – I stare at Wimbledon while listening to the man restretch then clean the carpets in two rooms; suds rumbling in their drum, the smell of pine detergent creeping up to me.

Two hours of plucky Brits, mauve clouds, the covers on, or grim-faced...

My parcel was delivered to the college Thoroughly packaged, like an only child ... I tear my father’s beautifully-written note (Please acknowledge receipt, Love Mum & Dad) Then fold the wrapping for possible re-use. A breeze laps the posters crusting the wall; Like lily pads, they compete to face the light.

I bump into Philip inside the Lodge. He asks to see the gift – another...

        I am timing the Fire Doors for something to do;     They swing alarmingly! Since the Management reduced Our use of electricity I walk the corridors         Trailing my fingertips the length of the wall.

        I think of adjectives to sum this...

The trick (he tells me) is to sleep till one  O’clock then watch the television.In the corner of his murky bedroom  There is always a swirl of colour:

T-shirts; smoke threading from an ashtray to  The light; shoes; anemones thrivingOn the wreck of the Torrey Canyon; our  Chancellor raising the Budget box.