We’re losing on “tough,” the handlers point out,
We’ve gotta make a move. OK, how’s this:
I’ll strike the bastards anywhere (he shouts),
Even in Pakistan; we’d be remiss
If we didn’t act! And she chimes in: Me,
Too. But, coming to sense, he refuses
To threaten nukes! Not her! We need to see
What comes down! Why not use nukes? They’ll rue
The day they challenged us. Meanwhile, he says
He’ll talk to anyone, search for the source
Of their discontent. Not me, says she, pay’s
Reserved for those who first submit, endorse
Our stance! And we—immersed—denied escape—
Drowning in flash rhetoric—jaws agape!
(8/8/07)