The Short Line

[Stephen Whiteside]

The Short Line

Stephen Whiteside 05.12.2012

C. J. Dennis has a special trick.
I'd like to imitate it, but I'm thick.
To stage a great surprise gives him true bliss -
Like this.
He pulls it off quite regular and clean.
I'm not sure I can do it, but I'm keen.

I don't know how he does it all the time.
Of course, he was a pro, with skills sublime.
I feel like I am jumping off a board.
I've scored
Again! That's two I've tackled in a row,
But still, I'm game to have another throw.

I guess it just takes practice. Ev'rything
Is difficult until you make it sing.
If you're trying hard to surf a wave,
Be brave.
Even if it keeps you up at night,
Dogged, sheer persistence brings it right.

Looks as though in spite of what I thought
It is a habit fairly easy caught.
I haven't mucked it up or dropped a line.
I'm fine.
My confidence is up. I feel no pain.
I think I'll chance my throwing arm again!

I know, of course, my only enemy
Lies deep within myself - complacency.
Nothing now can touch me. I'm aloof.
Bulletproof.
Dang, I looked the other way for just a sec -
An extra syllable snuck in. Aw, what the heck!

[Neville Briggs]

I like that one. Applause

[Stephen Whiteside]

Thank you.