Sonnet 56: A Life In The Pub

Low misty cloud swirls damp close to the ground Ancient parlour pubs lined the terraced street, Slurred speech from beer costing only a pound And smoke from cigarettes hangs around their feet; Drinkers in rough clothing prop up dark bars. And those who indulge in this ludicrous sport Live in abodes in streets with modest cars, Reflect silently in a glass of port. But from whom are these drinkers trying to hide Before staggering home to a nagging wife. In their poverty they only have their pride, Thus sums up their story of a sad life. These dark lives lived in pubs spread far and wide Are but chapters lived that life cannot hide.