Shy

It can be awkward
when shy creatures are cornered,
each hesitating over that first word.

It’s a tight spot
they find themselves in.
One will leave as likely as not.

Just how does one
break the ice? The knack
of easy conversation

is a blessing they lack.
I understand that. I couldn’t wait
to turn my teenage back

on relatives who visited
our family home. I feared
the things that would be said.

‘Just look at the state of his hair!’
‘Has he got a girlfriend yet?’
I’d colour up in the spotlight’s glare

and flee as soon as I
could. My mum thought I
was being rude. I was being shy.