The Study

Everywhere, books stacked to reach the nicotined ceiling -
buckling home made shelves.

Through a gap -
a minature totem pole dangles -
a child's hand painted gift.

Propped against a thick spine, tarnished silver frames an old photograph

He stands with handsome authority -
brass glinting on military coat -
arm bent to link my mothers gloved hand -
they flaunt ....... the glamour of youth.

On a massive desk full ashtrays depress the air.
While heartburn coffee cooled
he shaped thought to thought.

Later, as if under house arrest
he would sometimes stay there all day -
the heels of his slippers pressed flat.

by Gráinne Dowling
9th November 2001