120

HOMMAGE A JEAN PIERRE LEAUD

The present tense is neither sincere
Nor insincere; although it's occupied
By a window washer with eyes like
Cleaning fluid, the place called here
Is the last best proxy for home --
And as when you are eight or nine
The secrets that bring relaxation
Are feats of sleight of hand
Slipping out of chinese handcuffs.
Tell yourself to listen to what you know,
Show up, stand where they tell you,
Move your face as little as necessary --
Smile and pout and time and space'll
Make you miss your train!