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| Poem |
 
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The Coachman by Ranke LidyekTHE COACHMAN
I am the little man
let me get your bags
we'll leave early in the mourning
Don't wear black
it doesn't...bode well
wear something bright instead
Let me take your bags
and your coat of
many colors
and your hat
I'm sorry if I'm formal
and that my gloves don't
match
my pale linen suit
or my white horse
tethered to the coach
sit
relax
we go in peace
and silence
we go in the beautiful hush
of the early morning
you see, I put a hand
around nature's throat
so she wouldn't scream
or bother you
and I put a fresh coat
of paint on the grass
and let me say that
I admire your work
it takes discipline
planning
I hope the ride is smooth
my horse has dark eyes
and a supple gait
which should suit us
well where we're going
all talk is small
and you may take some if you like
to keep you company
to distract you
would you like some wine?
it's fresh
from the raisins in my vineyard
perhaps a toast
though I prefer to be sober for this
moment
wine dulls the memory
and I want to remember
the way
should I ever have to take this road again
the horse?
she remembers, yes
she's been there before
we've all been there before
(before it all)
no
she won't tire
it isn't as long a trip
as it seems
(to be...)
her chest is heaving from excitement, sir
it's a wonderful garden
hold on
soon
we'll be there
and she can rest
are you comfortable?
the horse?
no
she is fine
that isn't steam
you see rising from her breath
(it's smoke)
<laughs>
I smile back
well, yes
she is a splendid
creature
I agree
oh, that's because she's
hungry
she's always hungry
would you like more
wine?
there's another bottle
under the seat
drink
be merry
have another laugh
it's no trouble
I am your servant
sit
relax
smile (you fool)
we go in peace
a dove with raven's
wings
we go in the beautiful hush
of the early morning
(the smell of sulfur
in the air)
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