Poems

REPROACHES IN CHINA

Lots of reproaches in China . . .
For not totting up the Hong Kong coins
In his pocket. And then
For frivolously declaring a trickle of cents.

For occupying a huge hotel room on his own.
And for proposing to share it.

For liking the cheongsam.
For suggesting it was the national dress.
For asking where it had gone.
('Gone to - ha - to decadent countries.')

For neglecting to press a cigarette
On the guide every five minutes.
For pressing a whole packet on him.

For scaring a group of small children
Into tears.
...