WATCH YOUR BACK

Let me tell you a story of times gone by,
You probably won't believe me but just sit and try.
There were men with guns - all sizes and shapes,
Some carried big knives - others just robbed safes.

I have done jobs for hammer and done jobs for speed.
I have done jobs for diamonds and most other things, so take heed.
When you work on your own you must dig deep,
For if you don't there will be little sleep.

There is never a corner to guard your back,
There is never any cover to let the nerves slack.
You are always up there, big and bright,
A target for any - so that you mightn't make it thru' the night.

I have been in fights with guns and knives,
I have been stabbed with a hypodermic needle.
The odds of 30 to 1 were just too tight,
So my knees were iron barred that night.

I have been shot at by friend and shot at by foe,
I have been hospitalised whilst still in the throes,
Nowhere was safe - you just couldn't trust anyone,
So keep your nerve and just survive this one.

It is easier to brave whilst in numbers than to be brave all alone.

©Copyright 2002 by Paul Anforth

This poem relates mainly to undercover service in the Police Force but the last line is constant with any action, whether military or civil.