The Model Poem by RIC BASTASA

feelings are
here
guests on
my breakfast
table,

in the dark
they are crazy
dancers
playful like
disco
lights,

this is a
bright day for me

i set aside
feelings,
choke love,
and even
murder it

i want to appear
like a king to my
kin
unblemished by
the alterations
of feelings,

i am a model
of restraint
my polo shirt is
white
and my shoes are
shiny
black

i put my suit
and my tie

i pocket my smile
and
go inside my office

stiff-necked
and hurt.