Chauvinism

In a camping ground common room
a discussion about recent traumatic events
that bitterly divided our country
riots in the streets. Sport the cause.

A couple recently returned home
after
a protracted period of international travel
and work as financial alchemists – high flyers.
They giggle conspiratorially
employers have been told their return date is later
having seen the world
they now wish to see their own country.
In the New Year, new responsibilities
he, to the custodian of the nation’s purse
she ,to the protector of its currency.
We laugh at the harmless fraud.

The evening drifted into a new day.
It began when they offered wine
uncommon at the time
only three guests, that night, rude not to.
Not exactly a glass, a plastic mug
still
We talked ….. and talked
so much in common, especially humour.
A dozen years older – significant at that age, but invisible.
Through the buzz
of goodwill – and untamed alcohol
faint soundings of imperfection.

In the morning
separate ways.
Farewell.
Laughter. They drive off.
Clarity
he is extremely good-looking – movie star handsome.
she, considerably less than plain
a combination I hadn’t seen before.
Or since.