5/12/2003

The
homicide detective
on the case
was putting the pieces
in place.
He was methodical
persistent
and
with a psychic’s
vulnerability
had seen
for
too long
and vividly
the most
heartbreaking work
of which
we are capable.
Unfortunately
he got too close
to the source
of the problem
was
caught off guard
no one watching
his back
and a smack
to the head
he never heard
rendered him
unable
to do his job
ever again.
He dances now
in public
waiting in line
at
the malt shop
on the edge
of the world
with
another investigator
who
like himself
was damaged
beyond
complete repair.
Both know
full well
what
they have lost
but
dance on anyway
in the land of
free enterprise.
If
you are not
up to
such a vision
it is best
you
steer clear of them
but
if you can stand
a glimpse
of her and him
when
the long night
comes
they may
be there
to
see you through it.