Reunion

In a crowded pub the noise of reunion
bounces off the walls, the ceiling,
surrounds the men looking for old friends,
the conversations starting "I think I know you, what's your name?"

Everyone is 30 years older,
their faces no longer familiar;
their names long forgotten
are revealed to a shout of recognition,
a fond shaking of hands.

The crowd boasts several sticks,  
one wheelchair ("he was a big bloke once"),
70 year old Jack the lads preening and strutting,
a group of union men in slogan tshirts
in earnest conversation.

As the night goes on
old reintroduced friends form knots
sharing memories lubricated 
by pints of gold, brown, black and white.
A toast, a shout goes up : Miners forever!

© Copyright 2023. Chris Auger. All Rights Reserved

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