27th October 2024

 

woken early

since the clocks have gone back

impatient dogs

© Rachel Green October 2024

Ivy's house had doors too low

for normal folk; a bungalow

but built for those of shorter head:

"This cannot do at all," she said.

She asked the landlord for a raise

to all the doors and ceilings, "Gaze

upon my injured head,

just from rising from my bed."

But no. He showed her housing regs

which clearly stated "Those with legs

of normal size are not entitled to a rise

but can instead take on the guise

of smaller folk: Request a grant

to pay for costs your pension can't."

My aunt filled out the online form

provided proof of income, shorn

of all the money she expended

for the bills her legs extended

and was duly paid all fees

to amputate below her knees.

© Rachel Green October 2024