I never learned to party,

I never learned to party
but the invitation came,
it looked so inviting
and I thought I would be brave.

It was a christmas party
and though the food was good,
everyone knew everyone
and on my own I stood.

I felt like a somnubulist
in a freaky dream,
where nobody could see me
though I'm sure I COULD be seen.

Still, I had a drink or two
and a go at joining in,
got face-ache from the smiling
and a headache from the gin.

Outside the stars out-twinkled
any lights on any tree,
my unacustomed heels rang out
a staccato melody
a cat alighted from a wall
and stayed with me awhile,
and on the way he told me
of his night out on the tiles.

No, I never learned to party
though I like the taste of wine,
and listening to music
is a favourite thing of mine.
I uncork a tempranillo
put a record on,
toast marshmallows on the fire
and party on my own.