Caveat Emptor

Ann Atkins

 

Flicking through the pages to the classified ads

Searching for bargains to be had

5 door hatchback in midnight blue 

One careful owner – 

(Sorry about the other two?)

So we ring the number –

Takes a while to get through

The ad says full service history

 – so why does it seem to be a mystery

That the log is missing a garage stamp or two?

Low mileage? Yes, It belonged to my granny

Really? …It looks like it’s just finished a 72 hour rally

He’s looking for someone unsuspecting 

Who doesn’t notice overspray on the window trim

Or the misaligned wing

Reluctantly we walk away

No bargain to be had today

One week later 

On the front of the paper

A road traffic disaster

A hatchback – looks familiar – in midnight blue

The brakes had failed

He lost control

– You feel a cold shiver

 

It could have so easily been you

(Luckily he walked away with cuts and bruises)

And you thank your lucky stars that you were choosy

As you’re thumbing through the pages of the classified ads

Always remember: caveat emptor, 

Some deals are too good to be true

 

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ANN ATKINS rediscovered a passion for writing about 10 months ago and is a regular contributor at open mic nights around the Coventry area, with a mix of humour and reflective themes. Ann came runner up in the Leamington Summer Poetry Slam 2019. Also enjoys drawing, painting and generally being creative.