Different Song Poem by Mark Money

you taught me how to sing a different song-
opened my eyes,
showed my how to look up in these times.
i've been close-minded lately
never failing to miss appointments
taking the corners on two wheels to stay away.
been drastic, i suppose
but what else is left
after one becomes none
who becomes the cry and chill?
you say it's reasonable justification of the parties involved
but you shot off your mouth one too many times.
(someone can say it isn't so and it isn't)
i had a hunch-
trailed you from smithson street
hit all the potholes;
wailed the whole way 'long.

of course i miss you.
you counterbalance all the craziness in me
you're the sluice-gates that hold back my insanity.
this telephone cord is cold
i could wrap it around you and it would warm up
if you were here.

© (1976—Tulsa, OK)