It is a question of economics
where the price you pay gives you the best seat,
and the best seat gives you the best experience.
Train Life
It is a question of timing
where we will not announce platform changes
until three minutes before a train reaches you,
and the new platform is a full pelt run away
Train Life
It is question of chance as to whether or not
your carriage contains a group of school children in a shouting competition
or your carriage contains a group of babies in a crying competition
or a group of teenagers looking for like, an easy like man, stereotype.
Train Life
The man opposite you is raising his eyebrows,
his flares his nostrils as Lisa from accounts tells everyone
she is on the train.
Train Life
All the people.
So many people,
wanting to get home,
or to work so they can afford a home.
Train Life
reading the newspaper,
hoping for something other than
the same clowns in charge,
Train Life
leaves on the line
cold, insipid tea,
frost on the windows,
and the muffled clap of gloved hands,
the shuffle step of cold feet,
and an announcement saying the next train
is delayed for another ten minutes.
About the Author
Ben Macnair is an award-winning poet, playwright and musician from Staffordshire in the United Kingdom.
