Beneath The Gum Tree

We sat beneath the gum tree as happy as could be
The birds were chirping merrily, the sound of honey bees!
You looked in my direction, a smile upon your face
Your arm moved round my shoulder, for a quick embrace!

I looked upon your handsome face, the twinkle in your eyes
My fingers reached to stroke your cheek, but brushed your lips awhile!
When suddenly your face screwed up, in anguish and in pain
My hand retracted instantly for fear It was to blame!

You stood and ran toward the loo, I followed close behind
You jumped and leaped and swore and cursed, yet still I knew not why!
Alone inside you stripped your clothes and ran toward the tap
And then I saw the blob of dots, marching on your back!

One million green ants dancing, biting at your skin
Covered now in welts, as they prick at you, like pins!
I ran in desperation and helped you drench your shirt
Then wiped the blob of dots from you, and shook them in the dirt!

Your spasms now subsiding, a lunatic no more
We’d sent the last ant packing, he was heading for the door!
Dressed only now in jeans; you walk, with me, outside
I find my trusty ‘tiger balm’ and smooth your back, your hide!

We sat beneath the gum tree as happy as could be
When suddenly your face screwed up and I thought ‘Fuck … why me?’