Shoreline /One


It had been hot for a number of weeks 

I was in Folkestone 

Near the funicular railway

Which was being being restored 

(the reason for my visit) 

An abridged cafe 

Had also survived 

(unlike the burnt tea) 

Which haunted me 

I was very happy 

As the light was perfect 

The spectacular Shoreline apartments 

(another reason for my visit)

Faced my station 

A sleek red car interrupted my thoughts 

It was driven by a well groomed man 

In the passenger seat sat a younger girl 

Who I took to be his wife/girlfriend or mistress 

Is there a place where  one can get a cup of tea 

The cafe is behind us but I would not recommend it 

Pretty grim then 

Very much 

Would you like a cup of tea Wendy 

As long it is warm and wet 

 I was left alone with the girl 

Who on closer study was obviously his daughter 

She explained that the purpose of their visit 

Was to inspect a number of the apartments

As she was soon to be married 

And this was to be a wedding present 

I already love the entrance 

It is so near to the beach

I agreed and said how much I admired the complex 

The eye is always busy and it uses its geography well 

But its main advantage is its use of light 

It has my approval despite its exposed position 

Do you live around here 

No I live in Richmond 

With the pub that tilts 

I know it well 

Joe 

Wendy 

Would you live in these apartments 

The lower ones as I have a problem with heights 

Same here 

It is not much fun 

But the views are magnificent 

One can see France on clear days 

The view is even better from The Leas 

Daddy and I are planning to walk its promenade

You will not be disappointed