Paving stones a crazy brilliant red

redder than the roses growing there

but she loved him so, they all said.

 

Picked up a smiling child from school

just as usual,the teacher said.

Left the supermarket with bulging bags.

Why bother? the police said.

 

Walked serenely up the pretty path

unlocked the heavy front door

soared up to the top floor

With what in mind? they said.

 

Hung up their coats on hangers

put the groceries on their shelves

just like her normal day.

Ever so tidy, the husband said.

 

Took him gently by a small hand

defenceless against such love

stroked his hair, a hug, a kiss.

So loving, her family said.

 

Both down over the black iron rail

in a last deadly parody of love.

The postman passed out,

so all the papers said.

 

Paving stones a crazy brilliant red

redder than the roses growing there

such an affectionate Mum,they all said