46
I turn 46.
I’ve never liked birthdays.
Denis Glover
said: ‘Each day is a holiday
from the grave.’
James K. Baxter
only lived 46 years.
When I was younger
and reading his poems
I often wondered
what it would be like
to reach 46.
Sam Hunt said
‘You’re just out of school.’
It’s true.
Jim’s heart gave out.
Sam and Denis kept on.
Poem © Mark Pirie, 2026
I keep on.