There was a time we stood on that stage

and led and read and looked out over half

the young people in Martin County,

waiting to have their six minutes of say.

Sometimes I tended bar in my black silk hat

but the lobby is quiet and empty

except for two old dead guys.

You were always smarter but I was a bit wild

and daring, willing to trade queens early

and try to take you with bishops and knights,

as often as not you would pin me with castles.

Today in the dark silence we hear Mr. Flagler’s train

blow the crossings, you say check and I look and there

in the corner you have a clear shot with kings castle

I would block with my knight only he is already

holding back the queens bishop.

We laugh, look around and remember.