Gary Bateman Poet Free verse

Notes About The Poem

"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)   

This One's For You Bartender

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 August 7, 2015 at 12:53 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 August 7, 2015 at 5:38 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 September 2, 2014 at 3:04 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 September 2, 2014 at 3:25 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 September 2, 2014 at 1:46 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 September 2, 2014 at 2:48 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 August 31, 2014 at 1:40 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 August 31, 2014 at 2:36 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