I am drowning.  
You look concerned. 
I am making noises to show my distress. 
You share kind words with me. 
I am shouting.  
You change the subject. 
I am panicking.  
You soothe me with funny stories and regale me with tales of your life.  
I am screaming for help. 
You've noticed that the weather is changeable. You wonder if tomorrow will be better. You find it interesting how the Met Office often miscalculates. Your tomato plants are growing quickly. The garden is looking verdant. Should you buy a new USB for your computer? 
.....

 

 

 

 

 

 

Poem and painting featuring ‘Child of Stevie Smith’s Drowning Man’ included in February 2020 Dwell Time II Arts publication, an arts publication of selected contributions reflecting on mental wellbeing. Publication to be distributed on the Penistone Line journey from Huddersfield to Shefield.