The Fiction Issue Part IV
[Verse 1]
I have to write badly for a long time
I have to write badly for a long time
Before I can write well before I can write well
Said to me the aging poet as we stood in line for our coffee and donut
The sun beginning its climb over the pacific

[Verse 2]
I loved that bearded mountain
And couldn’t fathom death
Even though it was all around me

[Verse 3]
Pete the poet
Had the look of benefit beneath
Brown skin and wired end glasses
Conspicuous gold rings on needy knuckles

[Verse 4]
While we waited for our luxury beverages
He began with tales and troubles of a transgendered Rabi
An associate of his congregation in the valley
Which attracted the veterans of the adult scene
Many of whom were less observant
[Verse 5]
Last week's sermon he said
Was  about the dangers of dangerousness
The temptation to cover the tempest
Instead of the quiet constant
Quiet constant addition of saint