In 1993 Ramadan in the UK happened close to the winter. This meant the days were short and sunset was early. This in turn meant many Muslims found themselves breaking their fasts on trains and buses, on their way home from work.
I sent this to poem The Independent (my then daily read) for publication. Alas they didn't print, but it’s still one of my favourites.
Iftar in Commuterland
by Fahim Firfiray
on the British Rail Waterloo line into Clapham Junction, February 1993
On trains and buses after five
Up and down the nation
There are people scoffing sandwiches
Invariably asian
Who are these mobile munchers
I hear you all surmise
Eating with impunity
as the sun sets from our skies
Well its the Holy month of Ramadan
And the faithful have been beckoned
Keeping fasts, then breaking them
Almost to the second
So if you witness such a feast
Please try to understand
These pious, hungry souls
Are trapped in commuterland
