Contribution

Before the hand
could snake the face,
a slow motion
splash of perspiration
dripped on podium.

The acrid pul-
pit wet and ready
for superclean conception,
the speaker gulped air,
belched back a little
heave of heaven,
and directed my attention
to the poor-
he touched as if to help.

He had divided the good book properly:
labels affixed alphabetically by apostle;
pages partitioned by prophet;
and every highest light highlighted.

Yes, the speaker organized
the calling
so well, I knew the value I paid:
five dollars
he begged for
(and not a money changers'
dollar)
more.

Mark Scott Bagula

If you've any comments on his poem, Mark Scott Bagula would be pleased to hear from you.