BREAKDOWN

For Jeff, My Friend and Consulting Physician in California

I'm broken down, at the side of the road,

While mechanics meander by.

They tut a lot and mutter,

Or scratch their chins and sigh.

Some say: “It's the wiring”.

Some say: “Diesel bug....”.

Some say: “ No... distributor”.

Some say: “Needs a tug”.

Some say: "Shock absorbers.....

Have you had a shock?”

Some say: "Perhaps it's wear and tear.

How many miles on the clock?”

I was always turbo-charged,

Could go until I dropped.

Now I can't get going

For, when I do, I'm stopped.

I was able to go for miles,

On very little fuel.

As economical to run,

As a frugal little mule!

Always in excellent condition,

In all modesty, that's a fact.

My alloy wheels were gleaming,

And my chassis was intact.

I used to be all-terrain,

Working, utility and fun,

Now my powerful engine's rusty,

And my chrome trim's all undone.

My upholstery has broken springs,

My glossy paint-work's shabby.

My exhaust?  Totally exhausted!

I'm no better than a Trabi!

So, while everyone else is driving by,

I'm collapsed by the side of the road,

Waiting for the recovery van,

To be, ignominiously, towed.

Ffion