A brand-new boiler, installed

to keep us warm this winter,

all pistons firing, cosy

we wish to be, to keep away

the oncoming winter storm

from our sheets and duvet

and allow our toes,

and often frozen fingers

the chance to not feel the pain

of Jack’s teeth tearing at our vulnerable flesh.

All is well,

only a thousand other jobs

to keep us safe

in old age.

Ian D. Hall 2018