From a lower place

1

When I climbed down out of the Real mountains

Into the valley in the shadow of the mountains

There was a raven perched on my shoulder.

Life was hard in the valley

But I soon found out there was an even lower place to go.

2

I lived in a boxcar

Until I got cut up in a fight.

I quit my job in the "Best Damned Gelato"

And followed my favorite anima to Madrid.

But she got tired of us pretty quick

And I drifted, dreamless.

3

Now I am old, resting under a mangrove on a beach

Of salt-white sand

Trying to embrace my brother's advice

To never take oneself too seriously.

But it is hard knowing what I know

Harder still seeing what I see.

The large wakes from white boats

Are slapping the beach like spankings.

I think they really believe they are happy.

4

There is a lull.

5

I think the sun is rising.

5

When all is said and done

(which is never, but humor me)

I will consider myself lucky

If someday someone says

I wish I had known him.