Friday, May 28, 2010

In the Next Life, Canto II, stanzas 94-98

And now the conversation takes its turn
to her announcement of that which I’ve known.
I listen closely, and thereby I learn
that she’s determined she will go alone.

That means I must pretend I hadn’t guessed,
and act as though I’m saddened yet resigned.
I’ll wish her luck and safety in her quest
and hope her long-lost relatives are kind.

Can I convince her that I’m turning back?
This is exciting, playing dirty tricks.
If I can pull this off, I’m right on track
to start a new career in politics.

I pause at first, to feign initial shock,
then move into a fear-inspired rage.
The passion gone, I calm down and take stock.
I feel like I should be up on a stage.

While I look stunned, she finishes her case,
and then my anger she attempts to quell.
She handles her despondent mom with grace.
I think she’s buying what I have to sell.

©2010 Louis A. Merrimac

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