Snipe Hunt (The Jobseeker’s Lament)

Dug this one out of the archives. Written 2014.


You’re terribly kind and polite

I am sure

when you ask how the snipe hunt is going;

and you offer to buy me a coffee or cake

since I’ve nowhere else to be.

.

You’re terribly kind and polite

I am sure

when you ask if there’s been any sign;

and I say there was one last week

I heard but never saw

and you say well, 

at least it shows they’re out there.

.

You’re terribly kind and polite

I am sure

when you say a glimpse is better than none;

two in two weeks,

that’s three in a month!

That’s good

isn’t it.

.

You’re terribly kind and polite

I am sure

when you tell of a snipe over there;

I stalk it and hide and I look and I see – 

it’s another Greater Spotted Snipe

and I only have a license

for the Lesser.

.

You’re terribly kind and polite

I am sure

when you say one is bound to turn up;

it’s all good practice,

keep hunting, my dear,

and then you leave 

so you’re not late

for work.

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