This poem is based on an improv game, where people answer questions from the audience as distinctive characters.
Expert Panel: Pirate, Robot, Poet
How can I get my toddler to take a nap?
Pirate: Give him some rum. Arrr!
Robot: Toggle his off switch.
Poet: Sing to him the earth's heart hymn.
What should I look for when buying a house?
Robot: Plenty of outlets and a storage shed for lasers.
Poet: An attic to store dreams, a yard to live them.
Pirate: A roomy cabin and a sturdy dock.
How do robins know where to find a worm?
Poet: They look askance at the shivering grass.
Pirate: They call, "Worms ahoy!" And board that frigate!
Robot: They use their invertebrate sensors.
What should I wear to a semi-formal event?
Pirate: Your best eye-patch and a clean justaucorps.
Robot: A silver bow-tie, with polished panels.
Poet: A dress as aromatic and short as green tea.
What does the future hold?
Robot: Centuries of digital dominion.
Poet: Air and water shaping new fantasies.
Pirate: More rum! Arrr!
- April 30, 2013
Like this poem? Donate any amount and receive a special limited-edition ebook, available as a PDF in May, titled "Now with Kung-Fu Action Grip." It will include poetry, essays and humor pieces about pregnancy, parenting and my creative, determined toddler, nicknamed Kung Fu Panda, including writings about our recent trip to Illinois, where he was the ringbearer in a wedding.
To donate by check or money order, please make it payable to "Alyce Wilson," include a note giving your e-mail address, and mail it to:
Alyce Wilson
P.O. Box 39706
Philadelphia, PA
19106-9706
You can donate via Paypal (using a credit card if you prefer) using the button below.