Alan Trinder has submitted the following poem by Ronnie Barker, which appeared in a school magazine in the late 1940’s. Possibly his first foray into print? It was printed originally as one long text and we have taken the liberty of dividing it up into sense groups, as this makes it easier to read on-screen.
THE PRIZES
In the sweet, romantic springtime (It was May, I well remember, When the trees were decked with blossom), I was asked to write an essay. This was for a competition Which is held once every twelvemonth In the sweet, romantic springtime. "Prizes both of books and money To the value of two guineas Given by Sir Oswin Murray", Urged me to commence my travail. I had but one day to do it; So I set to work, that evening Scribbled, swore, and sobbed and sweated; And, by morning, got it finished. Next day I took in my effort - Waited for another fortnight - Heard with glee the brief announcement ' "Oswin Murray" won by Barker'. Then, how patiently I waited All through sweet, romantic springtime, Watched the blossom fade and perish, Watched the fruit spring from the blossom, Ne'er heard mention of the Prize. Now 'tis autumn, 'tis September, Now the fruit is picked and eaten, Now the trees their leaves are shedding Still no mention of the prizes. Yet I will not give up hoping, For I have my life before me, Maybe in ten years (or twenty I must not be too impatient) I'll receive a printed letter Typed out by the Secretary. Short and simple, merely stating That "Your two and forty shillings May be had on application." Until then I'll wait with patience Though my hair be turned to silver, Though my bones be bent and weary, Still I'll wait in passive patience Since I would not dream of asking For the cash I was awarded In the flower of my childhood. In the sweet, romantic springtime.
R. W. BARKER.
[We are glad to report that the writer of the above has now received his prize – Magazine Ed.]