AT THE BIRTHDAY PARTY
A measly ten pounds
(He had a minuscule amount of interest)
A purchase to please others
Unimpressed with his own gift-giving
But conforming to what was expected
Surprised by the appreciation shown in return
‘What’s all the fuss about?’ He secretly thinks –
almost murmurs
People socialise – greet – and connect warmly –
(to his further dismay)
‘I’m not used to this social interaction’
he sighs to himself
But can’t help noticing the enjoyment
they all must feel
As they act normal and share affection
with one another
He himself – embraced like a long lost brother
Too much for his brain to handle
Survival and dog-eat-dog
Was always his lot, – was all that he knew
He is dressed well for once
And looks now – for the next hand-shake
Slow transformation –
‘I could live with this’ he concludes
