I am from darkness and shadows,
Sunlit orange groves and rolling poppy fields,
'Fantasia' spilling across Saturday matinee screens,
Skating from my house to school every sunshiny day,
Ribbon festooned Maypole dancing and resin-dusty violin lessons.

I am from angry voices and tearful recriminations
Snowflakes falling from the sky like fairy parachutes,
Ice cream made from crystalline snow, sugar and vanilla,
Children clamouring to pedal the cranky old player piano,
Young voices raised in wobbling praise of 'The Old Rugged Cross'.

I am from so many houses, none could be called home,
Tinkling crystal, candlelight and party gowns,
Train trips to a sparkling sea and golden beaches,
Cable car rides and Chinatown,
Shrimp cocktails, Uncle Frank and Fishermen's Wharf.

I am from bitter tears, hostility and venom,
Wild strawberry patches, sugar cookies and lemonade,
Mountain streams and tall green trees,
Eager hands picking plump, sun hot gooseberries,
First loves and stolen teenage kisses.

I am from heavy hearts and despair,
Testy tempers, sneering sarcasm, words that hurt,
People who hide their anger behind false smiles,
Children cower and do not understand why
Family troubles must stay behind closed doors.