in a Century we are just beginning to learn
The Bearded Lady
weeps
and each of us
stares back
from
the wrinkled depths
of her simian eyes
She would love us
if we could allow it
A small dog
extends a hot red tongue
licks the smile
from her face
In the distance we hear
the first of the bombs
& reach for our guns
as the last of our youth
walks away.
--Ben L. Hiatt
