Aberfan

Would it have happened at Surbiton?
Would it have happened in Slough?
Hush, my darling, calm yourself,
It's over and done with now.

Would a tip like that have grown half as tall
If the Queen had lived below?
Not half as tall or half as black,
I know, my dear, I know.

Do they think that we're a lesser breed,
Are our children cheaper than theirs?
Of course not, dear, but I rather fear
We're a part of Welsh Affairs.

Oh God, that day! Can't we bring it back
And save them from the grave?
A day once done is over and gone,
You really must be brave.

I was brave for a day, and numb for a week,
And now I could kill the swine.
Come on, have a fag to soothe your nerves,
Here you are - take one of mine.

There are nights when I think he's in his room,
And I have to go in and look.
Some stand in the hall and hear them call,
It's the shock, my dear, the shock.

There are days when I linger by his grave,
And talk to him like I'm mad.
You must stand and pray, then come away,
Or you'll make yourself really bad.

Oh Jesus, will I ever see
My dear little boy again?
You'll see him alright, with a halo of light,
But only God knows when.

Herbert Williams

Aberfan is from the collection Ghost Country, published by Gomer Press, Llandysul, £3.95.