Outwardly, the houses seem identical. Within, exists a mass of confusion, a bewildering variety of intrigue; lifestyles exposed at the turn of a key.

Upgrading to a bigger property, a better street, or a different partner is no solution. Dissatisfaction cannot be appeased by seeking escape. Choices must be made, decisions adhered to, responsibility accepted. Yet, no matter what we do to avoid our own shortcomings, the inevitable truth stubbornly remains to ridicule our attempts.

Coach driving seems more appealing than teaching, playing drums more attractive than packing Polos, downing a pint of bitter a better means to an end. But, at the end of the day, whatever distractions are indulged in, the outcome is unavoidably the same. Nothing lasts.

How long, if at all, does it take to realise this? Can a mindset programmed in early childhood ever be altered, or should we simply enjoy the present and continue in hope? Cold comfort or not, we all remain the leading actors in the stories of our own lives.