Examine your fingertips for signs of discoloration!
One day it will be back, the supposedly eradicated contagion.
The postman will drop it in the rattling letterbox along with the circulars,
it will fetch up on your plate with a portion of herring,
the breastfeeding mother will give it to her babe.
What shall we do, as none of those who would habitually confront it
are still alive?
Whoever is on a reasonable footing with horror
can expect its coming with equanimity.
We are forever making space for happiness
but how oft en does it agree to sit on our chairs?
Examine your fingertips! If they are black,
it is already too late.