The Altar At Noon Poem by David Smith

Linen-lined
The altar at noon
A young priest with a golden chalice
A cup of wine
And some breaded wafers
He looks out upon the courtyard
At a student munching on a roll
Coming out of the lunchroom

God upon His altar and his lunchroom
Serious scholars in regimentally striped ties and navy blazers
Light the candles
Say the prayers

Situation ethics and the Vietnam War are in the air
The incense burning
Snuff out the candle smoke
Time for fifth period