I went to school today
Saw a bird perching on the swing
It twisted and shrivelled into nothing
Then the ashes flew up
There was someone in my head
(His name is Sam)
And he told me to fly too
I like Sam for he is good to me
So I tried to fly but I couldn’t so I climbed
Up to the very top of the swing
Sam was angry because I hadn’t obeyed him exactly
He told me to jump or I would stop being a
Heroine from a fairytale
So I did
I hit the ground and it felt as if something
Had stabbed me all over though I couldn’t see any knives
I realised the all-important truth: the teacher had the knife
I cried buckets.
There is something about freedom
Which I will see soon

To Evelyn

Ever since I found out that Evangeline and Esther are down with schizophrenia, I feel very much indebted to my eldest daughter, Evelyn. Even though I have tried very hard all these years to be a responsible mother, I seem to have neglected Evelyn in many ways. All my attentions were on the twins.

Being always filial and understanding, Evelyn never complained. But deep down I know she does need my care and concern as much as Evangeline and Esther do. Evelyn, Mum hope you can really forgive me and understand that despite the fact I have put in more time to look after her sisters, Mum love you just as much.