(A correcting of a poem by Phillip Larkin)
They try their best, your mum and dad.
They want to try hard, and they do.
They fill you with the love they have
And add some extra, just for you.
And they were loved once in their turn
By those in old-style hats and coats,
Whom some of the time were trying hard
To not be at each other’s throats.
Man hands on belonging to man.
It deepens like a coastal shelf.
Realise as early as you can,
Or when you have some kids yourself.