Self-isolation: a reader’s poem

What I’ve noticed since staying in and not going out

Is the small people continually running round the house

I’m familiar with their faces and know their names

But not the ongoing cry saying ‘let’s play a game’

I’m used to leaving early and home when they’re asleep

Saying my goodnights with a quick peck on the cheek

What’s happened to me – I don’t wear my suits

Or wait for the train for the daily commute

Or read the papers, do the odd crossword or two

Answer endless emails that seemed important to do

Going from one meeting to the next until I felt giddy

Never taking a break as I was far too busy

Now I’m educator, entertainer, handwasher and cook

Tucking small people in bed, reading their favourite book

These roles are really quite foreign to me

But self isolation has given us time as a family!