Behind The Mask! Poem by Denis Martindale

For years, I've never worn a mask, for seldom was there need,
Nobody else would stop to ask about some rules to heed,
In foreign lands, such things were done yet not in my homeland,
So as for masks, if needing one, I'd quickly raise my hand.

My mouth kept covered for a while until life carried on,
And pretty soon, I'd gently smile another cold had gone,
I'd take some sick leave now and then, returning in a week,
Now safe for me to drive again, though Winter days were bleak.

But now I see how times have changed, restrictions here and there,
With many loved ones now estranged, with loneliness to bear,
I've lived alone ten years and more, no longer in my prime,
Yet as to masks, I'm not quite sure to wear one all the time.

The dustmen come yet they aren't ill, no covering in place,
I see the postman working still, no mask upon his face,
The supermarket food arrives, each guy unmasked as well,
I ask, how come that each survives, as far as I can tell?

The TV's on, and folks I see walk down the City street,
I don't see one in misery talk to the folks they meet,
The TV ads show virus facts. It's floating in our rooms!
Invisible, so none reacts! We're safe! Each one assumes.

Stay in your homes yet ventilate! Keep all risks at the least!
At Christmas, who should congregate with turkey at the feast?
Who should embrace? Or touch or kiss? Or stand close to a friend?
Will Santa come? It's hit and miss! Is Christmas at an end?

How long before the world regains its missed normality,
Such that from masks each one refrains with utmost certainty,
And hugs and kisses can return to bless us every day,
Not just for those in love who yearn and love to share this way?


Denis Martindale. December 2021.