They say that on a clear day
You can see across to France.
There are clouds today but
At a glance I’m seeing
Pevensey, Eastbourne and
Beachy Head.

They said it was the perfect place to jump,
And many did –
Rid themselves of their heavy load,
Not seeing any other road
But the brief fall into the dark
And silence.

I hope for a sudden death –
No lingering in a drugged dream
In which it seems I’m still alive
But which deceives no-one –
Let me fall asleep one night
With a cup of tea beside my bed,
Drifting towards the light.