We had emerged from the blue underground station and were walking slowly towards the city bridge

But the views from the bridge were not what we had expected them to be

For there were extensive views over a distant sea

Azure blue green glow

The intense light of the morning sun

The gallery was on the opposite side of the bridge and stood impressively against the cityscape

Silver sheen green clean

Its modernist towers were favourites of ours

But were hated by many

Jennie and I were carrying empty white mugs which featured illustrations of another city

There was no reason for us to visit the gallery as it was between exhibitions and quite empty

But the refreshment room was open and we filled our mugs with strong workmen’s tea

As we planned our journey across the lavender sea