My usual pew
On the back row
Has been reserved
Also
The bench, ahead of that one
Is similarly stamped
I determine to move
Nearer to the front
But decide against recording the proceedings
My initial quest then
For a suggest and response audio recording
Of the Buckfast Benedictine Monks is scuppered
Instead I am here for Compline
The final-minute bells are sounding
This is my new purpose
To feel the stillness
To immerse myself in the quiet
Before the misunderstood rituals begin
