The Whiskey Taster’s Flavor Guide

Head Man

They scrubbed the heavy, white tiles on the counters and
the acre of white, linoleum floor.
They wiped down the long, steel tables with strong-smelling chemicals, and polished them
until the hard, overhead lights glared back at them.

They made ready for the boys and girls that would soon lie still and stiff in the room.
Far away, the head man took his hands from his hips,
hooked his thumbs in his belt
and pulled his pants up tight.

Moving his head slowly, 
looking over his  shoulder at his face in the antique mirror – which reflected the faces
of  other presidents - he chuckled, adjusted a few strands of  hair on his forehead, 
the neat knot of his bright red tie, and reflected on the brief call 
that sent the effusive , gray bombers off to do their duty.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2008

Poem

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The Whiskey Taster’s Flavor Guide
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace