Nima Back Home 1967 Poem by Terry Collett

I am home
from the hospital
after months
being there
over the drug addiction.

I am in
my parent's care.

My room is
as it was
nothing moved
or changed
(except tidied up) .

Downstairs my mother
is attending dinner
(guests are coming) .

Be on your best
behaviour Nima
mother said
in the car home
none of your nonsense.

I told Benny
I was leaving hospital
and gave him
my address
I hope he writes.

Maybe we can
meet in London
if my parents allow
me out.

I go to my window
and peer out
it's a wonder
my mother hasn't
put bars at the window.

The sky is overcast
grey clouds
dull sun.

If only Benny
was here
and on my bed.

I don't miss
the quacks or nurses
at the hospital.

I go lie
on my bed
and pretend
Benny's here
but he isn't
so not joy or cheer.