The Children

When I’m sad, hurt or moved I need to get it down on paper, I need to write. I dedicate this poem to those lost on Monday night and the amazing people of the town where I grew up and spent 30 years of my life in, Manchester, stay strong our kid xx

The Children

It was the night that they’d been waiting for
they were clutching in their hands
tickets delivered by Santa
golden tickets for seats and stands.

There were kisses at the foyer
and calls of “Have a good time!”
The buzzing of the arena
in Manchester, sublime.

Indescribable excitement
on seeing their heroine
their Disney princess appearing
for them, a lottery win.

The singing, love, and laughter
from row upon row, upon row,
people coming together,
enjoying this wonderful show.

But, evil sat among them
a coward with a plan,
too far gone to feel empathy,
too far gone to still be a man.

Evil that didn’t stay around
to hear the singing turn to screams,
to witness the crushing of the hearts
of families with hopes and dreams.

An evil that didn’t wait to see
consequences of what he’d done,
the aftermath of lives snuffed out,
lives of children having fun.

Such evil deserves no glory
or mentioning of his name,
instead remember the children
let’s not play his game.

Remember each and every one
who played a part that night,
the families, the loved ones
Mancunian heroes who kept out of sight.

Those beautiful souls who care for others
and want no claim to fame
a city mourning those they’ve lost,
remember each and every name.

Excited and happy children
who should be going places
keep them forever in our hearts,
remember the smiles on their beautiful faces.

Written by: Cate Hayes