Hello, Mr P

A visitor, unwanted, knocks,

not mine the choice of whether stays,

eviction can’t now be achieved,

so how to greet this one at door,

now stepping, uninvited, hall?

A protest vain - why scream or shout,

frustrated voice but wears me out –

but gracious host as I was taught,

accommodate, and treat as guest,

adjust home life as best to suit.

Folk ask how he has made his route,

but unknown journey, travel path,

the fact that he arrived, suffice,

acknowledge presence, like my wife,

discover more about his style.

I learn his nature, Mitty-like,

inconstant in the face he bears,

for other hosts tell storyline,

unlike my own experience,

though common features shared by all.

I do check some things, family,

his tree so little understood,

but basically he remains,

so little point in fighting back -

relax, find advantageous ways.

He’s forced to join me in my quests,

write poetry, and ballet dance,

those roads not followed, searched before.

as rise, recline as is my wont,

surprising him by driving on.

My greatest fear, demented friend

may choose to join him, as is trend,

but if so, not control the grace

that governs space I’m living in.

Except that I’ll not know he’s here.

Of course prefer if left this house

or better still, had not arrived,

but now he’s here, don’t curse or rant,

acknowledging his influence -

though keen should know on borrowed time.