This is no royal mile but three,
That snakes in a reflective mood
Past London landmarks (where to pee?)
Some stay open - offer food!
Undeterred by spots of rain
Tarpaulin-wrapped or with a tent;
Such queues we shall not see again
All walks of life - with one intent.
Black ties and brollies, young and old
Celebrities* join in, heads bowed
In hours of waiting, pinched and cold
Subdued chatter in the crowd …
Police discreetly cordon lines
In awe, proud to participate,
Aware these are historic times
To honour She-who-lies-in-state…
Teary-eyed, at modest pace
Where many last respects will pay
Prince Harry - uniformed today.
Monday's funeral turns the page
A Nation stoic - lump in throat;
Acute sense of a passing Age;
“God save the King” strikes poignant note …
(c) Poet in the Woods 2022
* i.e. David Beckham
Thames-side queues
Queen Elizabeth II, who died from bone marrow cancer, lies in state in Westminster Hall
Such an apt and moving verses to honour the Queen of the Century. Good luck and all the best to one of my favourite poets.
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