PREJUDICE

First published in January 2022

He was one of the old school,
boss of the house, his wife
quiet compliant self-effacing,
completely under his thumb.

We were neighbours, they kept
a key to my house in case of
emergency. That was then.
Over a drink one night I blew it.

You didn't get into the lift
with him? my neighbour said. Alone?
Of course I did, I replied, Why not?
He's a Head Teacher, like me!

My neighbour was appalled.
Stupidly, I argued my case.
He went silent, lips pressed tight
But the man is black! he said.

The next day my key tumbled
through the letter box. Nothing
more was said, but his wife was
banned from visiting me. Why?

Just the colour
   of my colleague's skin.