Coming Soon

When I am an old woman I shall wear purple,
With a red hat which doesn't go, and doesn't suit me.
And I shall spend my pension on brandy and summer gloves
And satin sandals, and say we've no money for butter.
I shall sit down on the pavement when I'm tired
And gobble up samples in shops and press alarm bells.

- From Warning by Jenny Joseph.

I came across this well known poem a long time ago, when the thought of being a rebellious, spirited old lady seemed very attractive but remote. To my astonishment, I now find myself nearly there. And for the avoidance of doubt, I'll head off some of you wags at the pass, and point out this is not a selfie.