The Demise of Roland Ratso: Chapter forty three

The male singer has got an amazing voice and launches into Nessun Dorma which he sings beautifully. It reminds me of a poem I wrote about my father. Father and Music. When father got his possessions out of storage Including his beloved radiogram (with magic eye radio tuning) He stood in the “But” of our “But and Ben” In front of my mother’s wedding gift to him And subjected me to a rendition Of the whole of his Lanzo and Caruso record collection Standing with tears rolling down his cheeks. Many many years later, after I discovered the blues Was when I learned to understand his passions For what Lanzo and Caruso did to him Hendrix, Clapton and Joplin did the same to me Yet even though I struggle to share his taste in music I have shared his emotions; often being turned inside out Because of an understanding of his own delight. Had a really bad night – the bowel situation was critical with several visits. The back up finally dislodged and to cap it all the bathroom lights didn’t work so most of my performance was done with the landing light on and a general “feel my way around.” Good job I know the way! It’s a pity though because I always like to have a good look even thought the iron tablets disguise true colours. I got up and swallowed my tablets with a slice of bread – I didn’t fancy anything really but you have to eat. The chemo is dragging a bit and making me feel tired. The philosopher in me says that I will come through it all but at times it does get a bit wearing. It got to nine o’clock and Irene says “get your shoes on” so I can take her and little Kath down to the club. I get my shoes and coat on and then realise that I have left my car down at the club because I got a lift home! Chemo brain strikes again so I have to waddle down and get the car so at least I can give them a lift home. Antony has rung up and we are having my little girl for some of easter so I had better be on my best behaviour even though she might not! I have got some easter biscuits for her to decorate – that will be a challenge in itself as she is left handed and not the most adept in the world, When we made the blancmanges on Sunday she asked for the scissors to open the packet but while I was looking for them she had ripped the packet and most of the contents were down her clothes. “Oops Grandpa” she says and I just know that we have to have a laugh about it – but before the grown-ups come in the kitchen to see what is happening.