Fragments recalled from a wedding

Fragments recalled from a wedding

Memory hazy, through wine glasses see,

something between humanity and me.

Such parts I recall, somewhat poignant,

to remind me I feel so damned fortunate.

Groom party beside church, top hats in the air,

the scene sudden jolts under the Sun's glare.

Old friends together, in secure tradition

instantly distance my present condition.

Now inside God's house, respect I do show.

Hymns, prayers, sealed lips, no belief: now they know.

I feel a burden to sing, to join in,

hypocrite I'm not, though respect I don't win.

So gathered outside, bride to groom is wed.

I've tried to dress cool, a fat prick instead.

Colleagues together and nearest the car,

no photo's of us, lets head for the bar.

Back to the house and reception begins,

"We're spare parts here", so best not to fit in.

When one is apart, unnoticed you go,

to observe mankind and to know her woe.

Sat at our table, introductions made;

I quickly offend, through politics wade.

Said "Leeds has no soul" "how dare you" she cried,

"stimulate debate, opinions divide".

The band strikes up and the first dance is shared;

the romance is alive and nothing compared

in life so far to this, your moment, now

stand in the spotlight, then return to the crowd.

The night grows old and I'm warm dancing drunk,

busting my moves she smiles, inside she's sunk.

Outside she's hard, but her hands soft and warm;

so tough for the single, they dance on toward dawn.