Mother

Plenty of sun, plenty of water

Then you will grow

When you first arrived, I was besotted

All the joy and the pain I’d ever wanted

and all through those days ’til I wrapped your frame safely in your overcoat

and you go in with the other lot

I’m on my own again

When you first returned, I was delighted

Felt your frame in my arms, small body

that I made, had grown

had shaped you into what? I ought to know

But the weekends come around so fast

I’m on my own again

Plenty of sun, plenty of water

Then you will grow

When you first applied, my world was florid

Full of pride in your frame, so solid!

That you’d be so brave to stand for your honour and your family

Go through Hell for all our luxury

I’m on my own again

When you left my side I was contorted

Broken frame with the soul aborted

Frozen shame and grief that I’d let you, allow you to go that way

Never to see your face again

I’m on my own at last

All those years I put you on a pedestal

all just to see you had plenty of sun, plenty of water so you could grow

Plenty of sun, plenty of water, you should have grown

Urban light, the sky now brightens from a stoney grey

You awaken by the lantern used to trap the day

and the love that I feel for you I will serve as food

It’s enough that I still get to spend this time with you

Brush your teeth, your clothes are ironed, lying by the side

Wash your face and body quickly!

Don’t need that jacket today

there’s plenty of that sun

Please wear this hat when you play outside

Stay in shade, rehydrate

Please stay safe!

I worry every minute of the day

As a treat there is some chocolate for your break

In your red lunchbox, but no tuck shop!

Never talk to strangers and don’t ever give your name

Work real hard in lessons because then it’s time for games

Tag, you’re it!

Caught and kissed!

Tell me about your day

Your whole day

I’m alive, you’re my pride and joy

Such a special person, aren’t you?

At the summer fair, we went before

It was here last year

Plenty of sun, plenty of water

A teddy bear, some candy floss you will have

Plenty of sun, plenty of water

The you will grow - I know

You are my son, you are my daughter

All my attention on you

Plenty of sun, plenty of water

The you will grow - I know

You are my son, you are my daughter

I’ve got a present for you

Back from walks of woods and fields

through stormy gusts and blows

I will place you by the telly where the fire glows

And two wings does your quilt now frame

You’ll always be my angel

I’ll say goodnight