Roberts' Talk 1962 Poem by Terry Collett

Roberts came over
a big kid
broad shoulders.

We were over
by the far end
of the sport field
waiting for
the PE teacher
to come over
and arrange us
for teams.

See that wood
over there
he said
pointing
with his stumpy finger.

We looked over
to woods near
the playing field.

We nodded.

Well I had some
bit up there
the other lunchtime
he said.

Bit?
said Trevor.

Girl you dimwit
nice piece
quite willing
and all that.

All what?
another kid asked.

Sex
if you know
what that is
Roberts said.

What was it like?
Trevor said.

Like falling
into a warm bath
Roberts replied.

The PE teacher
was crossing
the field.

The kids
looked towards him.

Roberts made
gestures
with his
plump hand
and smiled.

I shrugged
my shoulders
and looked away
wondering
what position
the PE prat
would want
me to play.