Flamingo Paradise Motel

“Flamingo Paradise Motel”
2021 Jerry Brotherton

It was the neon sign of the 
Flamingo Paradise motel.
Flashing lights into my eyes 
that woke me up in that filthy hell.
It took a cigarette before I knew 
where in the world I was.
And another to clear my mind 
of the ringing from last night’s buzz.

There was gin on the table 
so I took myself a little snort.
I looked inside my wallet and 
I was five hundred dollars short.
I swear that when I went to bed 
I had a woman by my side.
I told myself well ole boy 
at least it looks like you’re still alive.

Chorus:
Imagine that. 
Who would have ever thought,
this time it would end exactly the same.
Happens each time 
I mix whisky and gin.
If I thought this time would be different, 
I guess I only have myself to blame.

Well I tried to piece together 
the events of the night before.
I remember there was a Llama 
though I really can’t be sure.
I’m pretty sure she had long blond hair, 
not the Llama but the girl.
There’s a clown’s mask on the bed post
I’ll be damned if I know what for.

I don’t think she was a lady 
or I a perfect gentleman.
I tried so hard to recall her face 
but I just don’t think I can.
I went into the bathroom 
to splash some cold water on my face.
There was a tuxedo and a bridal gown 
strewn about the place.

(Repeat Chorus)

Written in lipstick on the mirror 
was a note that someone wrote.
Said thanks for the good time husband 
don’t worry I returned the goat.
Now I swear this is the last time 
I’ll touch another drop of gin.
Until the next time I’m in Vegas 
when I’ll do it all again.

(Repeat Chorus)
Copyright © | Year Posted 2026

Poem

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Rodgers Avatar
January 28, 2026 at 6:58 AM
Hello Jerry, reads like waking up inside a hangover you half-expected and half-deserved, the kind where the room is spinning with clues you’re not sure you want to solve. I sense that the voice has that weary swagger of someone who knows better but also knows himself too well to pretend he’ll quit the ride. Excellent! Winter Blessings, Jerry, Daniel
Brotherton Avatar
January 28, 2026 at 7:23 AM
Thank you, Daniel for dropping by. Stay warm, my friend.
Jones Avatar
January 28, 2026 at 5:28 AM
A wonderful write that entertains and engages! Would love to hear the song!
Jones Avatar
January 28, 2026 at 2:00 PM
lol! You are too funny!
Brotherton Avatar
January 28, 2026 at 7:27 AM
Trust me, Karen. You would not want to hear me sing anything. Have a blessed day, my friend.
Cunningham Avatar
January 27, 2026 at 9:07 PM
Brilliant Terry, you should put this to music. Tom
Brotherton Avatar
January 28, 2026 at 7:30 AM
Thanks Tom.
Goldsmith Avatar
January 27, 2026 at 10:40 AM
What a story/write you have here. I enjoyed reading your "Flamingo Paradise Motel" write. Great Ending... "Good Luck" if for a contest. Have a fun day writing away.............
Brotherton Avatar
January 28, 2026 at 7:31 AM
Thanks, Paula, I appreciate you dropping by. I hope you are staying safe and warm. Have a blessed day, my friend.
Anaya Avatar
January 27, 2026 at 9:45 AM
Classic! Love it. Drunken losing control of one's faculties. Warning: one may awaken with a real goat next to them! Great read
Brotherton Avatar
January 28, 2026 at 7:32 AM
That, my friend, would be another tale indeed.
Fowler Avatar
January 27, 2026 at 8:10 AM
LOL Jerry. Quite the daytime nightmare! :)
Brotherton Avatar
January 28, 2026 at 7:33 AM
So trus. Have a wonderful day, my friend.
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