The cost of living, never mind dying, is extortionate

Why is everything so expensive? At the risk of sounding like an older person-this question is one that springs to mind with alarming regularity.

- ANDREW HAIGH

In fact, we are often reminded that many, including those of more advanced years, have to choose between eating or heating.

Having just viewed my latest utility bill, however, I’m minded that covering it is going to be a painful experience and suddenly any appetite I had for breakfast vittles has faded.

My lack of sustenance not so much a choice but a consequence. At what point did the opening of an envelope become more agony-inducing than giving birth to twins?

Is the future, row upon row of hospital beds, filled with those about to open their water rates. An epidural duly administered, a bank of nurses on standby?