Cutbacks! Poem by Denis Martindale

When Ellie saw the monthly bill
For electricity,
She felt a chill and not a thrill
And great uncertainty!
'I'll make some cutbacks here and there,
Pot Noodles for a start! '
So, with a hacksaw, paid due care,
And hoped to play it smart.

She halved the toppings just the same,
And put the kettle on,
With water boiled, she took her aim,
Till half of it had gone.
She stirred and stirred hot noodles fast
Yet made sure none would slip,
Impatiently, she stood at last,
To have a spoonful sip.

'I'll add an Oxo cube right now! '
So she went to the shelf!
'That's bound to boost the taste somehow! '
She uttered to herself.
She crumbled bits and blobs on top
And stirred away again,
And all at once came to a stop
And spoon-sipped now and then.

And Ellie grinned, enjoying lunch,
Devouring her feast,
With every slurp and chew and munch,
No wonder she looked pleased!
'I'll have the second half next time! '
She smirked at saving cash!
'Half-sized Pot Noodles taste sublime! '
So why not have a bash! ?


Denis Martindale. The 3rd of January 2026.