Whatever I use, work with or play,
Do I become “it”, the more I practice,
How I become accustomed to it?
Especially when travelling along –
A bumpy road, or path.
The more I cycle –
The more – bit by bit – swap places
With my bicycle and myself!
Or, is it just drunkenness –
When I’m not cycling –
Feeling the need to prop myself up –
Against a wall or place one foot
On a kerb!
Maybe that’s why I’m a heavy sleeper –
I’m turning into my bed –
Or just sleep-walking –
Thank God I don’t drive if the latter!
Driving in my sleep –
Could have me dropping off behind the wheel!
Tricky getting into a car or
On a bicycle –
If I’ve turned into a bed –
Tossing and turning,
Sleepless nights and days –
Falling out of myself – whatever side!
Torn or mucky bedclothes, too.
I felt released when I became “it” –
Whatever “it” is –
A crossword puzzle,
Drawing a portrait in abstract form;
Writing this poem –
Forming haikus with pre-printed greetings
In Christmas cards, for example.
(Inspired by a conversation about the plot in “The third Policeman” by Flann O’Brien).
David Allen, 22/12/2021
