A Lover's Ten Percent

we hear about one percent affluence
estute Graeber's occupation
but quiver in love's shadow
a lover's ten percent of doubt
if what should be will not work out
and romance become a roundabout

we sneer at loans made just to bind us
to make us bow like slaves to patrons
but wonder how a maid's mind moves
how her mouth tongue lips and teeth
can kiss your pride with merriment
or suck you till your blood is spent

we buy lay-away plans on credit
benefitting only interested parties
but here folk drive by countyside rules
the shortest route to A-B distance
you'd be a fool to close your eyes
and test the branch's resistance

once one's bitten he's twice shy
they'll say he was a real nice guy
Durocher knows they'll finish last
after all the love they had has passed
so why not make a lovers pact
'when all is done, give it back'

it's beneficiary children's wont to say
'save your parents' rainy day'
mountains soon to valleys yield
letting justice be appealed
make it clear just what you might
and print it out in black and white

don't spend your ashes on an urn
let love grow and money burn
trust not future to a chance
lock it up, then dance the dance
ten percent is not too bad
with ninety reasons to be glad!

4-21-13