I skipped out
on the poetry reading
at the free library
where I was scheduled to read
a new brewpub opened
just down the street
and my whistle
required a little wetting
so I walked down the street
oblivious to any consequences
or hurt feelings attached
my name was on the list
for the open reading
They’ll call my name
and be greeted with silence
and they’ll call my name again
going once going twice. . .
Perhaps, I consider,
my best reading ever
as I belly up to the bar
and order my first beer
but I’m also feeling
a little frisky
so I order a shot of Jameson
to chase the beer
I really don’t know why
I felt so nervous an hour earlier