an unexpected call
been years
since we’ve talked
so
initially flattered
and
responded
at
length
to
the youth’s
questions
then
started to hear
a familiar tone
the one
we’ve all heard
you know
that
move
the story along tone
punctuated
with
the repeated phrase
i just called to
i just called to
that mantra
no doubt
used by cornered rats
that’s when
one
recalls
those phone queries
from
parents
about
academics
and
grades
when
heading out
to
a bar
called
the library
so
as not to lie
would simply say
can’t talk right now
have a date
with
the library
with
that memory
in
mind
the young caller’s
abruptly
told
oh my
i’ve got to go
please
call again
soon
knowing damn well
it will be another ten years
before
another
courtesy call