Number 38

State house revival 

Number 38 has shoes and sandals cluttering the front door, 
reflecting the absurdities of life within.

A homely kitchen is a place that ensures the survival of 
the most necessary tradition; where spices and herbs are 
used for their delectable properties.

The living area is engorged with luminous red walls that 
have an ethereal glow about them. They look futuristic. 
Here the lounge and dining room are integrated.

The lady of the house smiles at me, as she sits on the sofa 
by an Italian dining table and a distressed cabinet that 
have a captivating charm. She watches Astar on 
morning television.

To the right, a sideboard shelves tasteful Clarice Cliff 
and Devon china. Other aged oddities are scattered 
throughout the room, giving a link to a vanished 
era. The room is interesting and ambiguous, a 
place where rules don’t apply.

After Viv makes coffee, we look at the main bedroom.
It is a busy web of complexity, impregnated with
curious bohemian possessions and other
treasures from the past. But for me,
the aged brass bed captures my
interest as it stands close to
where small insects have
banged along the
window glass. 

The rooms further back in the house are curious.
Tonight the stars will wink through the windows 
while young people are protagonists of their 
own dreams. 

James Fagan
Palmerston North