We’re all waiting to go on the ferry

There’s a long line of cars in front

There’s a long line of cars behind

Some cars have only the drivers in them

Some contain small groups of friends

Some couples, and some families

We’re all waiting to go on the ferry

We flex our fingers, think our thoughts

Joke with each other, or argue

Some of us have come well supplied

They chew their cucumber sandwiches

Sip tea from thermos flasks

Those who brought no provisions at all

Through choice or need, look at the eaters

With equanimity, or envy, or disdain

We’re all waiting to go on the ferry

The open windows let in the air

That smells of salt and steel engines

Some of us are in a holiday mood

Looking ahead to pleasure and leisure

Their well-earned reward in the other land

We’re all waiting to go on the ferry

Some of us consider the other side

With mild apprehension, or plain dread

Some of us have heard that the other place

Features two quite different landscapes

Some guess there is no other place at all

We’re all waiting to go on the ferry

Till the stevedores beckon us all on board

Regardless of our beliefs or feelings

The holidaymakers roll cheerfully on

The fearful put up a brave front

And the doubters move forward with certainty