Four Solo London Walks

I

A mousy paw
In a bucket bag of cuddly bears
Strutting by streetlight
And victory in summertime
England heavy on Holloway Road
The paving slabs flapping soul

II

Turned Angel, Allhallows,
Walbrook Wharf.
Through Fruiterers Passage
And then Three Barrels Walk.
Hung out mysteries by The Alfred Plaque
Counsel sought between the hail on The Thames

III

Who made the nests on the Jubilee Bridges?
Who built the pyramids of Tottenham Court Road?
Who ordered the shooting of that horse
Behind the Iceland, on Mare Street?

IV

I tipped my hat
Grateful to the heron
Guarding the barges of Regent’s Canal
Late, and through this orange night


    - c. h., 11th December 2024