Though I’ve never liked his politics, Don,
Down at the paddle tennis courts, is not
The worst of men. The dogs adore him, conned
By biscuit treats he issues on the spot!
He hires hard-times Ruben to partner
Him for weekend doubles games—the Ruben
Who “stays” (term of art for the homeless corps)
Under a bush beneath a freeway span.
Ruben, though destitute, plays tennis well,
And that, of course, balloons Don’s spirits high.
It’s nice to win, enjoy that prideful swell
And, at the same time, help this needy guy.
And when the game is done, Don, graciously,
Invites his partner to his gleaming car—
Drives Rube back “home” in his trim Ferrari,
To resume his hopeless, rough safari.
(9/15/12)