Overheard on Blackfriars Bridge

Overheard on Blackfriars Bridge

by Cecilia Knapp

have you ever been here at sunrise? — you must — it’s like — I don’t even know what

what are they — carved into the stone — birds I think — yes — sea birds — facing the ocean

your hands are freezing — here — put them in my pocket — that’s more like it

mum can you hear me? — wait one more thing — before you go

I mean the view — is there anything better? — London all frisky & twinkling

the lights — baby look the trains — come here — let me zip you up

the sky it’s like a bruise or something — so purple — the river’s calm tonight

I used to walk for hours — just to end up here — stop with me for a second will you

I never thought I’d leave — but the rent — it’s going up — & up — I just–

it’s good to see you — I’ve been meaning to ask but you know — life

I don’t know he’s not my usual type — but maybe — I’m so sick of the ghosting

we have to cross over get there — no it’s on the other side — the small green pub

this was dad’s favourite wasn’t it? — imagine — his feet across this once

no I like the rails where it’s faded — kind of pinky — like — kind of soft

at last! — the rain has stopped — I’m gasping — how long have I got you?

oh you know — the anxiety is real — girl — same — it’s been — a lot

I know — I know — what else can we do — but keep on

the sun — is suddenly — so bright

love — it’s only me — I’ll be home soon — promise