The Greatest Show on Earth
Odorous elephant droppings and popcorn seeds popping
tickle and capture the senses.
Bright feathers of flocking and men wearing stockings
contained by cheap chain-link fences...
Seals sit atop stoops, lions jumping through hoops
while a man rides on one wheel.
An announcer belts out that he hasn’t a doubt
ticket prices are truly a steal!
Colors painted on faces and three-legged races
creating a loud roar of cheer.
Acrobats soaring while grown ups imploring
where they might find their next beer.
Countless clowns in a car, strange beasts from afar
creating a wondrous mystery.
A man swallows a sword, making older ones bored
an affair with its own made up history.
Ever since birth of the greatest show on Earth
other carnivals could never compare.
A show just for you, it’s for mom and dad too,
it’s fun that we’re all sure to share!
(2013)
