A LONDON FAREWELL - 15th December 2006

For all of my life, four years times ten
From here today to way back when,
A bedsit, two houses, a one bedroom flat
I felt pride to reside in the burg where it’s at.

The map is a rainbow on the Underground
Oft through its maze its ways I found,
The tubes themselves so often delayed
No denying its trying on some journeys made.

There’s so many places I fondly recall
Cannon fire to choir at old Albert Hall;
The Tower of London, Tower Bridge too;
While high in the Eye such a breathtaking view.

I recall its parks: Hyde, Holland and Green
A ‘scape to escape the grey urban scene;
Likewise Leicester Square where the dental school stood
“No gain without pain” I soon understood.

In Hamleys' store such pleasure I've known
Where toys make boys of men full grown,
Where Barbie and Sindy and massed teddy bears
Remind mothers and others of times with less cares.

To Selfridges food hall I’d sometimes make haste
To find every kind, sure to suit any taste;
Also to Soho and Carnaby Street
From passion to fashion, all needs they meet.

In the magical theatres of London's West End
One more night of delight I would gladly spend;
Its museums of history, science and art
They still and they will hold a place in my heart.

Life keeps on moving, it changes its course
With brief pity this city I must now divorce,
I'm off to the Midlands, near the city that’s "second"*
No regret but I bet by the Big Smoke I'm beckoned.

For all of my life, four years times ten
From here today to way back when,
I lived in London but now I start
New days and ways in Worcestershire's heart.

COPYRIGHT D M PAMMENT 2010