Swept Away

To John from Anne,

Remembrances after seven years of madness….

Osaka, 1946

Swift flash of willow,

Streaking red scorches lush green –

Echoes of promise.

Unwavering oak,

To O’Riley’s sorcery –

Sunny ’thirty eight.

Glance or smile sweeps me,

     Offering arm or on-drives –

Charm wins over force.

Hand that wields the bat,

     On my cheek becomes caress –

Sweet young brimful amor.

Dreams of runs and tests,

Of Wedding bells in time near –

Bugles blare in space..

Almost in first side,

Among eleven best men –

British rank and file.

Skilful in defence,

To balls yes, but not bullets –

Young love sinks in blood.