Homage to Jim Beam

The folly of the liquor flashes first --

that every fiery swallow adds to thirst.

The splashes down the throatways do not quench

but slam the circulation like a wrench.

O ice! O soda! Water me a bit

and pull me from the hypnotizing tit

that I may wring the clarity from this

and take the romance of its single kiss.

                                            Labor Day 2011