Introduction

My father has recently given me the keys to the family flat in Budapest, Hungary. I sent him this poem to show my appreciation...

A Flat in Budapest

If you've a place you've convalesced
When life is hard, and you've been stressed
Then indeed, you must be blessed
With a flat of your own in Budapest

If you need a place to rest
At times full clad, at times undressed
Then I would heartily suggest
A flat of your own in Budapest

If the bed can manage three abreast
Then I can certainly attest
That the fairer sex will be sure impressed
With your little flat in Budapest

There'd be no wars and no unrest
No poor, no meek and no oppressed
No enmity twixt East and West
If we all had flats in Budapest

If from the law I had digressed
And at the government's behest
Were under virtual house arrest
I wouldn't mind, I'd not protest
If I was held in Budapest

If all I owned was repossessed
Mark my words, I would not rest
In fact I'd be a man possessed
Embarking on the noble quest
To win back the flat in Budapest

In light of the feelings I've expressed
And the undying love that I've professed
Folks have remarked, "You're sure obsessed
With your little flat in Budapest"

But I care not, for I know best
And on this point I do not jest
But say just this, as a last request;
Please scatter my ashes in Budapest

Copyright; Ben Mousley
Email: b.j.mousley@swan.ac.uk