Poem: The Colours You Like

Me and my son talking about “special interests” and now not everyone has them

We say “special interests” because
not everyone has them. Some people
are bots; the non-playable characters.

You cannot fathom, in the clothing malls
lined with outlet stores, that there are
people who do not buy books.

I try not to think about it too often,
because words and hugs are about all
we have if we are looking to prove

what separates us. I love that you think
everyone buys books and listens to music,
everyone researches filmmakers and

watches widely; everyone makes something
in the mess of this life. There are gaps
in the way we have raised you, but there

is such huge spirit in your fight. You are
filled with a passionate intensity, and don’t
lack conviction. And one day you’ll

work out that Yates had it wrong. Please
keep choosing the colours you like
to fill up the vase of your life.