This has not been my darkest hour
And yet it seems to me,
That all my time is being devoured
By dull activity.
Does a soldier feel like this
More when the war's begun,
Or right before the armistice
When most of the fighting's done?
I've paid my dues here at this place
And now I'd fain retire
This way of life without disgrace,
To chase my heart's desire.
George Chadderdon © 1995