Thirty Five Bloody Years

THIRTY FIVE BLOODY YEARS ?

Consulted I was on most everything.
Unable to cope, then they'd give me a ring.
Appreciated too, and thanked for my skill.
You've a place here for life, and always will.
When things pick up you'll get a good rise,
Bonus as well, sure you'll get a surprise,
Will you work late? Double back tonight?
Ta very much. We'll see you all right.
So it went on for thirty five years.
Assured by my ability I'd no idleness fears,
Money got tight, I had to work harder.
Problem's not theirs, it's my empty larder.
No rise this year the market's depressed.
We're buying new plant we must reinvest.
Pull in your belts notch up more goals.
Gaffer's bought a new car. Aye! It's a Rolls.
Trade is distressed so earnings are carved.
Machines so efficient staff's to be halved.
Surplus of labour, must shed to survive.
I'm chucked on the waste heap aged fifty five.
Watch is presented with thanks off the boss.
For thirty five years of shouldering his cross.
I'm sorry old son that we've got to part.
What place you were promised?
Oh that! Of course. Why it's here in our heart.
Thirty five bloody years both man and boy.
Now tossed aside like
some broken old toy.

by Don Passmore ?