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1945 Meg poem

Two Years in Khaki

I little knew, two years ago, when dressed newly in khaki..

Two Years in Khaki (1945)

I little knew, two years ago, when dressed
Newly in khaki, what these years would add
To my small store of knowledge. Looking back
I still know little but I’ve learnt a lot
Of things both good and bad and for them all
Am grateful. I can cram my life’s
Essentials, in a moment, in two packs
And travel night and day asking not where
(nor caring either.) I can live within
A crowded mess yet call my soul my own.
I’ve met more people, seen more places than
Ever I did in peace-time. I’m prepared
To try my hand at any job I’m given
Without expostulating first, and I
Who hated changes, can accept them now
With fatalistic calm. I yearn no more
For steaming baths, dry clothes, or ham and eggs.
If I can get enough to eat and drink,
Can sleep by night and can keep warm by day,
And get my letters quickly, I’m content –
Well, more or less content, a bowler hat
Is all I ask for more: I’ve learnt enough
In these two years to know it suits me well.

Margaret Taylor 1945

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