Brian K. Bilverstone Poet Rhyme

Notes About The Poem

In 2023, having just gone through a short but rather nasty period of ill health, I got to wondering about how long I might live. Not morbidly -  I'm far to fatalistic for that. Having read a poem about reaching old age, I thought I would write one from the point of view of someone who hasn't got that far - yet.

 

If I Make It To Old Age

If I Make It To Old Age

If I make it to old age, I’ll count myself lucky.
Not careful or clever, not courageous or plucky.
It’s all down to fortune at the end of the day.
Despite what the best advice is, or what doctors say.

There’s fitness freaks popping their clogs in their twenties,
While ancient old alkies live surrounded by empties.
Well alright, those folks are excepting the rule.
Life can be implausibly generous or cruel.

Don’t get me wrong now, I don’t want to pop,
But the day with my number on will be time to drop.
There’s nothing can stop it, when it’s time it is time,
Be you ancient and venerable or right in your prime.

If I make it to old age, it won’t mean I’m cunning,
Just that I’ve managed to stay in the running.
I’ll keep cracking on, just like anyone would,
I’m middle-aged now, so it’s so far, so good!

♡Like0

Share Poem

---

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Daisy Meadows January 30, 2024 at 11:38 PM So true! None of us know what the future holds but let's hope it will be good and with lots of happiness! A good poem. Well written. Brian K. Bilverstone June 6, 2025 at 4:25 AM Thank you Daisy. I take each day as it comes. Best wishes to you.

Suzanne Delaney January 29, 2024 at 7:07 AM You are so right about this,Brian: I read many of your poems today sent out in an email from Soup. Very clever and well written.you really have a great talent for observing everyday life. Write on. SuZ Brian K. Bilverstone June 6, 2025 at 4:26 AM Thank you SuZ. I'm enjoying your work too. Very best wishes.

Gordon Mcconnell January 29, 2024 at 6:54 AM Nice penning Brian with good rhyme and flow too. A really enjoyable look at getting through life, regards, Gordon Brian K. Bilverstone June 6, 2025 at 4:27 AM Ah yes, Gordon. We all have to plough through it one way or another. Thank you for your kind remarks. Best wishes.

Daisy Meadows November 3, 2023 at 11:39 AM A good poem. Nobody knows what life will bring. Well written. Brian K. Bilverstone November 4, 2023 at 2:17 AM Thank you. How right you are.