i.m. Ivor Cutler (1923-2006)

Someone said they were dreaming outside

they were slumped over a cup of coffee

and it was milky and sweet

and the day smelt of suntan lotion

Someone said they were sitting on a bench

they were under a umbrella

and they saw a man wearing short trousers

and it was Mr Cutler beside a bicycle

Someone said they had a mint with their latte

they wanted to give it to Mr Cutler

and they stood up, parted air

and drooped it into his hand

Someone said Mr Cutler thanked him

they danced away, heard a laugh

and it was like an owl's hoot

and it was like a fox's yelp

Someone said they carried a tin

they caught the laugh

and it's kept at home

and it's tied with string

Someone said last night

they heard the squeal of brakes

and in the morning saw the tin

and it was covered with stickers

Someone said so this morning

they opened the tin

and saw the laugh fly away

and it's gone to find Mr Cutler