"She's under thirty."
It started as a joke against myself.
Not giving youngsters credit,
being a resentful or miserable old bastard.
It's become useful shorthand.

I've known people who always win
people with a lot to say
people with no fear.
All a thousand miles behind me now.
Under thirty.

I've learnt of the aristocracy 
of modern times, the divinities.
Their music in every ear,
heroes of endless gossip.
I chuckle.

In the nature of things
I am old and soon to fade.
They are young and will live,
it all sounds so obvious.
I could roar with laughter.

I've seen people pursue with enthusiasm
one radical direction
next time with equal vigour
plough forward the opposite way.
Bless them.

Danger lurks in mindless waffle,
no merit or promise. I know now
to embrace urgent issues, engage
what strengths I have developed.
Tomorrow belongs to me.