The cold days of winter and long nights together
When we shared the bond of a close family,
The memories still clear of the home I was raised in
Yet so long ago now but I can still see,
The fire gently burning and lighting the darkness
And warming our hands there against the harsh chill,
We talked and then listened to gramophone music
So happy those nights that were peaceful and still.

And watching the snow as it gathered on ledges
Then crept up the window in soft candle light,
The glow on the walls as so faintly it flickered
And burned through the evening and into the night,
So little we had and yet we were so lucky
For we'd got each other while others had none,
Together we sat by the warmth of the fire
And there we did stay till the last flame had gone.

Then falling in slumber and sleeping in arm chairs
With eyes feeling heavy and resting our heads,
Then climbing the staircase as embers were glowing
And bidding goodnight as we went to our beds,
Those cold days of winter and long nights together
Shall never return for those years have gone by,
Yet deep in my heart I will always remember
Just watching the flames slowly fade and then die.

ANDREW BLAKEMORE

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/the-cold-days-of-winter/