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Sonnet III·XI·MMXXV. / Brum, it's Bin a While was written in response to the ongoing and epic bin strikes in Birmimgham in 2026. I read out the poem on BBC Upload (accompanied by an interview about my writing journey) in June 2026. The interview and poem was broadcast across all Midlands radio stations including BBC Radio WM.
Sonnet III·XI·MMXXV
Brum, it's Bin a While
The empty cans of pop and dirty fries,
Five piles of fag butts in a wet shoe box,
Old veg peelings; your promises and flies,
Glistening bottles, a discarded sock,
Overflowing bin bags and heavy hearts;
A human story; delay and unrest,
Accidental but modern pavement art;
It's hard to believe that this is your best.
Although we have grown in number and size
Thriving amongst your uncollected waste,
Your last week's kebab, a feast for our eyes.
So, no need to end this strike, don't make haste.
From us, the council won't get a letter:
Rat family life has never been better!











