22 February 2013
In the dead of night
When the moon is high
The remains of the day
Are laying idly by
The mess that we make
As we dive through the day
Need collecting completely
And storing away
You'll never see them
But they're millions strong
And they have to be
For they haven't got long
Smaller than atoms
But they're everywhere
Readying tomorrow
For all to share
Colours need brightening
Senses need heightening
Thunder's rechargeable
So is the lightning
Planets need turning
Emotions need churning
Yesterdays hating
Will always need burning
Tears require watering
Smiles need upturning
For todays new lesson
Will always need learning
The fans that create
The air that we breathe
Need their filters replaced
Or we may as well leave
Dawn in the ascendance
Chores nearly done
Just a couple of things
And their work is done
The stars are wrapped up
And placed in a box
They'll use them again
So there's no need for locks
And the trash is all taken
For who needs to see that
It's swept under the pavements
(Keep it under your hat)
The maddening moon
Is kept sane for a while
For the slow rising sun
To warm with its smile
Only then will they rest
Their task is complete
They kick off their shoes
And put up their small feet
Safe in the knowledge
That they'll always be needed
For we'll make a fresh mess
Of the day they have seeded
Nobody knows
Who these little guys are
One thing is certain
They don't stray too far
I've heard on the wire
That they're bluish-green
But no-one can tell
For they've never been seen
Be oh so quiet
Do all in your power
To stay awake
'Til the midnight hour
For I've heard it told
That if you're polite
One of them may
Say hello tonight...
The Night Shift • Opuss № I