Partners

PARTNERS The circus tent is filled tonight. I enter front-door, nerves a-tight Climb uncertain angles and heights Spangles and tights and flashing lights Up, around, fall-defying High trapeze - terrifying Out of reach, smiling twirling, Kept in balance, blonde hair swirling Anxious glance below, and pause, Then climb down to wild applause. Never noticed by the crowd Below in darkness, old man proud His steady focus with anxious up-gaze, Adjusts the ropes, the nets, and main-stays, Tighter, slacker, under me constantly. Applause his signal to go instantly, Leaves by back-door every night, Knowing his job has been done right. Satisfied, content, and all unknown The netman sleeps and dreams alone. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Written by Sydney Peck Entered in David Williams's Contest Circus