MY FATHER, MY FATHER

Staunch, unbiased patriot,

Isms mesmerize him not,

Hides his heartaches like a man

­Those I inflict whenever I can­

Crusty, dissipated pipe,

Strong tobacco, over-ripe,

His favorite song, "I Love You Truly,"

Table manners quite unruly.

Trods the good earth, morn and night

To minimize the mortgage-blight,

Gallant, unrewarded hero,

Private bankroll, ceiling zero,

Suit reflects the march of time

Undisputed trademark

Of your Dad and mine.

Menu never varies

As the years roll by­

Roast beef with brown gravy,

Homemade apple pie.

An old capricious hammer,

An antiquated saw,

Thumb-print faded tin-type

­Keep-sake of his Maw­

Ten strong calloused fingers

Swinging at the bat,

A pair of compact elbows

To tip his dear old hat.

My Father, My Father!

Even in Paradise will be no bother!

Expects no return promised in Heaven.

Dear St. Peter:

Just set his eight-day alarm clock

For fifteen before seven.

-Alias Mrs. Gob