Performing ‘The Way We Were’ at the British Library launch of the Gay UK Exhibition

Newly arrived in London

Seeking fame, fortune, friendship…

And the kind of sex we couldn’t find

In our small towns and villages.

 

We were ravenous.

Wanted to grab life by the throat,

Or, fall in and be overwhelmed by it.

Grow into ourselves.

 

We were gagging for it.

Brimming with fear and excitement.

Impatient for a brand new life,

Of our own making.

 

We took courses.

Loitered in clubs, pubs and places,

Hoping to meet a bona-fida homosexual

Or become one.

 

We marched together

On streets paved with hope and wonder

Held hands at Greenham – shouted

Made love as much as possible.

 

The way we were

We thought would never change or end

Now the way we are today

Will tomorrow’s history amend