In the darkness of the night,

Before darkness,

Early lights on, this is January.

A few weeks into a new year

And already we are tired and exhausted

Remembering our Christmas debts.

All the fun of the moment, dissolved

Into the anxiety of how many months till cleared.

Before darkness,

I get a jumper and some socks

So, I can enjoy this summer evening on the beach.

Never thought I sit out here so long and late

But then you came up to me and sat next to me

After a bit I started stroking you

And you nuzzled under my arm.

I talk to you and you look up.

What is your name and where do you live

Did you run away or are you left to fend for yourself.

This is the summer holiday after all

Will have to call the police to see what to do

But you can come home with me till daylight.

Before darkness

And what time is it

Washing up time,

Bath time

Story time,

Sleeping on the sofa till bed time

And then what

Spend the rest of the darkness

Awake and counting sheep,

Or motorbikes, cakes, countries

But nothing helps! The insomnia is there to stay till morning.

Before darkness,

Light the candles tonight

I haven’t managed to pay the bill

Will do it tomorrow over lunch

And then we will cook some pizza,

Fresh dough home-made,

Sorry about today

But forgot, too busy

Long queues at the post office.

But mum you can pay online.

I only get paid over night, sweetie,

When it is dark.