Optimism was the victim of a hit-and-run
spending four weeks in critical care
returning home
to resume life as before.
Resolve pulled itself together
remembering life before the fall
the awkward reconciliation
the unshaked deal.
What lies between nod and wink?
1) The range bracketed by definitely and probably?
2) Silence swapped for a wad of notes?
3) A prearranged time when vigilance is not?
A poker debt pledge – quits and double
if protests are withdrawn
and
a valedictory foyer exit
attention might forget the unlocked back door
or open window.
The job is menial
temporary
the owner well-known and respected
his reference will strengthen confirmation
the waiting room – but I have priority. Nod and wink.
This was the one – I was sure of it.
payback and payoff.
The interview went well
questions to strengths – they are playing the game.
Next morning
have they called? “ No.”
Possibly it is still too early.
each time he appears
the same question
the same answer.
Three days later – “I’ll tell you if they call.”
Eight days later
he asks if optimism still is – “ they could be….”
No. He said. It’s too late.
He turned away and then back
speaking in a new – slow – only for this voice
“you might want to think about a new career.”
Orphaned Islands (Un)poetry 