The bridge on the Severn Stands still, hushed Dutifully guarding What tries to be a holiday. Swans, congregating Delicately preening Unconcerned by the longboat Making deliberate progress It's passengers all wearing A Captains hat, Heads turned towards The Cathedral And just for them Nine bells announce the hour. Ladies, brightly dressed Carrying large cake boxes Lead a gentle procession To the fete. Bikes, two at a time Unhurried pedalling, Weaving their way Around promenade trees And grandparents with children Always stopping to hurl Stale bread at unsuspecting ducks. But imperceptibly Insidiously, remorslessly The unholy din of traffic Gathers strength Drowning out all who dare To shout out against it ... And normality returns.