Make the drive
across the bay
and through the woods
to your small house
There you are
just out back
in your grey pants
Hammer down your pain
onto the deck
Sometimes, the math just won’t add up.
And sometimes, the board is just too short.
Most times, the kids – too far away
to save you
to save them
Your face
angles strong
arms that hold
and last for moments
There you are
just out back
in your grey pants
Hammer down the pain
Kiss my neck
Sometimes, the math just won’t add up
Sometimes, the board is just too short
Most times, the kids – too far away
to save you
to save them
You’re a man
who knows the self
who knows the world
The one I look to
There you are
two steps ahead
in your grey mood
Hammer down the pain
then fall like lead
‘Cause sometimes, the math just won’t add up
Sometimes, the phone is not enough
Most times, the kids – too far away
to save you
to save them
And I’m
So sorry.
Photograph by Brian Oldham