This One's For You Bartender

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"This One's for You Bartender," as simple as it may seem actually touches on some deeper topics. I left any further deep-seated conclusions, per se, for the reader to ponder. I actually wrote a simple draft of this poem in free verse some months ago as a light-hearted ditty, but in a way it's morphed into something else. Anyway, I hope that readers enjoy it. Most of us, at one time or another have been to a bar with the old traditional bartender. One can be surprised what one finds out at times when talking to a bartender in this particular social milieu. Anyway, enjoy!! All the best. (Gary Bateman - August 30, 2014)

Bartender, Bartender . . . mix me a drink . . . and give me one of your alchemic, mystic concoctions. Bartender, Bartender . . . tell me what you think . . . as you give me your magnificent magic elixir. Bartender, Bartender . . . I don’t want to think . . . but I need that feeling of sublime nothingness. Bartender, Bartender . . . I’m in love with her . . . but only YOU know the truth of what I can’t tell others. Bartender, Bartender . . . I’m really not a broken man . . . and—believe it or not—I still have faith in my fellow man (sometimes). Bartender, Bartender . . . I do love your alcohol . . . and your enviable mastery of the alcoholic arts. Bartender, Bartender . . . I dislike stupid people (immensely) . . . and I avoid them (like the plague) whenever I possibly can. Bartender, Bartender . . . my love of poetry is for all eternity . . . and my passion for it knows no limits in the human imagination. Bartender, Bartender . . . mix me a drink . . . and whether one day I meet Jehovah or Mephisto, please always give me one of your alchemic, mystic concoctions. Gary Bateman, Copyright © All Rights Reserved - August 30, 2014

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Laura Breidenthal

Date: 8/7/2015 12:53:00 AM

I think it would be interesting to be a bartender, and this poem is the reason I ponder such a thing. Your descriptions are always pleasant to read too, giving me something to keep in mind as I read. I feel like I have read this one before...hmm...I must have. I really like it! I am always impressed by your structure, and themes as well. Always, Laura

Gary Bateman
Date: 8/7/2015 5:38:00 PM

Hello Laura, Thanks again for viewing some of my older first posted writes!! This one was actually written as a tribute to a German Bartender friend of mine who works at a major hotel in Stuttgart, Germany. I've known him since 2002 when I originally lived in that city when I was working for the U.S. Government. This poem does leave things to ponder for sure and reflects aspects of the human condition. Cheers and Best!! Gary

Maurice Yvonne

Date: 9/2/2014 3:04:00 PM

there are so many layers to this write. really an ode to the bartender's role in our society. at the same time we learn a lot about the patron as well. this is a fine read. thank you.

Gary Bateman
Date: 9/2/2014 3:25:00 PM

Maurice, I actually wrote an earlier version of this poem for my favorite bartender at really nice hotel we stay at when we visit Stuttgart. He's German and a great bartender. He was impressed that someone would do such a write for him. And so . . . many influences. --Gary

Barbara Gorelick

Date: 9/2/2014 1:46:00 PM

Bartender, bartender, pour me a glass...Garys buying....seriously, this is another interesting piece. As Gene said, it beckons you to keep reading. BG

Gary Bateman
Date: 9/2/2014 2:48:00 PM

Barbara . . . Thanks!! I've been know to buy a few in my day. I like to vary my themes (as you can see). And Gene even offered me a "twist of lemon." Glad you liked it. Best Wishes as Always . . . Gary

Anne-Lise Andresen

Date: 8/31/2014 1:40:00 PM

- Go to the glass with your joy, but not the bottle with your grief - A really well written poem Gary - Enjoy reading - Thank you - oxox // Anne-Lise :)

Gary Bateman
Date: 8/31/2014 2:36:00 PM

Anne-Lise . . . Agree wholeheartedly, the joy is better than the grief. "Enjoy the libation in the glass, but pray not your spirit is buried in the bottle." Thanks so much. Cheers, Gary