The Mafia Musicians

THE MAFIA MUSICIANS On the sidewalk half a dozen swarthy men from Italy, Playing foot-tapping dance music With lots of clarinettes and violins. Black moustaches and over-long hair And dark fedoras at jaunty angles, with Half-smiles all the time, Switched from one tune to the next, Without losing the beat. Like stage-Italian characters, suntanned With their black suits and Mafia hats, They were happy to pose momentarlily While people took snaps. No hint of loss of rhythm - I’m sure you know the sort Of tune they were playing, Very Italian, very foot-tapping Polka-esque. People watching showed their appreciation By throwing coins into the many empty hats On the sidewalks nearby. Police eyeing them circumspectly yet closely, Half expecting the violin cases To contain instruments more lethal.