The idea for this poem walked into my head several nights ago.It is a swift narration of a bizarre train incident,as seen through the eyes of the ticket-master.
“Excuse me, Miss, you’re not on the list
Do you have an explanation for this?
If you do, let’s hear you out
If not, kindly do step out.
Step out, out of this carriage
You don’t belong here without a ticket
Step out, out in the open
This train ride’s not for free.”
“Don’t have a ticket, Sir
Can’t afford one, you see
But I got on the train anyhow
And it’s taking me to paradise now.”
“Para… what? Is this a joke?
Or a mere trick to provoke?
Cut it out, it’s not funny
Why board the train if you have no money?”
“Told you Sir, would gladly repeat
I’m off to paradise, now do you hear me?
Will be there soon, I dare say
And I’m not getting down for anyone, Nay!”
“You darn will, Miss! I’ll see to it
Go! Bother someone else with your little fib
Step out Miss; give me no reason to harm
Step out gently, or I’ll ring the alarm.”
“No need Officer, no need at all
I now beg leave from you all
My station has come, in good time too
I won’t need more help from you.”
“Stop her boy! Don’t let her flee
We’ve got to get hold of that fibbing missy
Something’s wrong, my gut says so
This whole business is a bit too fishy!
What are you doing,you stupid fool?
You didn’t let her get away, did you?”
“Sir, she ran like the wind, with me in tow
Then – Oh Sir! – She jumped out of the door!”
“Jumped out of door of the moving train, boy?”
“And even as she fell, she squealed in joy,
‘I’m off, off to paradise anyhow
Won’t be seeing you in a long time now!’”
