I think I thought - Martin Parker

Wry wit andobservation in 102 poems, I Think I Thought details both a dark side togrowing up, girlfriends and gastro-pubs, and a gently light side to old age -despite its attendant malfunctions and memory loss. All of these we meeta-plenty on the poet's long haul from nappies to near-dotage, pausing along theway to reflect on some of life's unwelcome changes - from the loss of SharpsToffee, the Empire, flea circuses and doctors who do home visits; to the adventof longer licensing hours, synchronized swimming, greengrocers' "apostrophe's"and a possible need to origami one's Andrex.

So far theauthor has survived the slings and arrows of Life's outrageous fortune withaffectionate memories of most of its ups and with much gentle laughter at manyof its downs. And the effect of it all on him? . . .

"No matterwhat state it is in after years of indulgence and sin,

Thoughwrinkled and sagging through excess of lagging

I'm happyat last in my skin."

Perhaps theperfect book for the awkward friend or relative who, until now, has beenimpossible to buy presents for.

A writer of light and humorous verse, Martin Parker has a proven track record as a writer with many of his works appearing in national publications including The Spectator, The Literary Review, and The Oldie. He believes a poet's job is chiefly to entertain.