SONG FOR THE SOFA This Poem was written for The Loss Project 2020

A poem for Dave Passley , partner in crime, lover and best friend written October 2020 for The Loss Project

I would like to hold on to the sofa

With its memories of Christmases past.

Not like them stuffy dull occasions at my Mother`s. Where I`d slump like a grumpy teenager at the dining table and silently moan “stuff your turkey”.

These were Christmases celebrated in style. Wearing onesies with no underwear and smoking cigarettes at the kitchen door. Never minding the draft.

With cheeky shots of brandy in morning coffee which made my face flush and melted winter ice. You made me breakfast and you made me beautiful.

I`d like to hang on to the sofa

As it`s where we had our sofa-in. Like a slightly slobby version of John and Yoko.

With days of classic film screenings,

Like 007.

For Your Eyes Only, The Spy Who Loved Me with the guy who loved me.

It`s where I competed with the dog for your affections, nudging you for strokes from your huge gentle hands. To Carry on Regardless , we begged you for more.

I would like to hold on to the sofa.

As I would like to make it some wings, attach an engine and then strap us in tight.

We`d lift off from the northern grey streets and jet to some sunnier skies.

First class to Thailand. Itinerary full of elephant scrubbing, sandy feet and temples where we sit in Buddhist bliss.

I would like to hold on the sofa.

As when the news came, I fell down on the lounge floor.

My son pulled me up from wailing into the carpet. A sound I`d never made before.

It`s cushions gave comfort while I lay there for days still wearing my coat.

I would like to hold on the sofa.

Even now its empty, dogless ,wingless and worn

Stained from tears and upset spilt tea.

It`s manufactured with moments where we felt we were both now home.