James Tate Poet Quatrain

Quick, I Need a Doctor

At the doctor’s office, I had to fill out forms,
Showing gory details—infirmities and norms.
They said, “Take a moment to furnish what we ask.
Just tell us your condition, and your family’s past.

Did your ancestors carry some dread disease?
Like hardened arteries or painful swollen knees?”
Reluctantly, I listed the sick and the lame,
All of my progenitors since the Mayflower came.

About three hours later, with pages by the score,
Intense pain seized me, and I passed out on the floor.
Then I heard someone say, and much to my sorrow,
“It’s time to close today. Please come back tomorrow.”

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Robert Pettit February 7, 2011 at 7:03 PM Why didn't I see this one earlier. This is a very clever write with great humorous descriptiveness and rhyming.

Abraham L January 27, 2011 at 12:41 AM good way to explain your experience, very good, sound like me apart from the passing out lovely poetry

Julie Heckman January 24, 2011 at 3:23 PM I like the irony in this poem very much, I go to many doctors and know the drill. Keep it up. Thanks Julie

Sara Kendrick January 9, 2011 at 9:34 AM I can totally relate to this one..After having medical problems in our family in the past year...That is exactly how it is..They ask on most forms questions that are asking around do you have Aids or HIV in 20 different ways to avoid asking the question directly...I am glad that I chose this one to read today..Your kind comments on my work encourages me..Thanks ..Sara

Carolyn Devonshire January 7, 2011 at 3:13 PM Oh my, such wickedly dark humor, James! And yet, this scenario probably happens more than we can even imagine. You work flawlessly in rhyme that never seems contrived and the message here is astonishing. Best wishes, Carolyn

Doris Culverhouse January 7, 2011 at 7:34 AM You really had me laughing with this witty write....sad thing is it might be the truth.

Dr.Ram Mehta January 7, 2011 at 6:37 AM This is the daily unfortunate tale all over the globe. I enjoyed the wit and sarcasm in the poem, with nice rhyming.