by Ralph Dartford

I was at home
on the phone
talking to Eve
my missus.

There were no
long distance kisses
because we
were having
a row.

I called her a cow
and then a silly
little
madam.

She said.

Bob
the word
madam
is a
palindrome.

And she
put down
that phone.

Furious
I called
my Dad.

I said.

Dad
Dad
Dad!

What’s a palindrome
When it’s at home?

He said.

Son
ask
your Mum
your Mum knows.
your Mum knows everything.

But
she’s gone
to the shop
to buy a bottle of
pop.

Later
that night
a text message
from
Eve

It’s over
Bob.

You are a tit.