These latter weeks I race against the Fall
(With light and prospects both fading dim)
To splash fresh colour upon the walls
And white-wash over banged-up trim.
(While the cat is drawn just like a moth
To bask in the floor-lamp for his nap
And purr himself asleep on the drop-cloth
Or--more likely--bunked down in my lap.)
To act as broker for my prayers
I'm in the market for a Patron Saint
As layer I slather upon layers
In full rainbow of interior paint.
(While the cat is drawn just like a moth
To bask in the floor-lamp for his nap
And purr himself asleep on the drop-cloth
Or--more likely--bunked down in my lap.)
My brush may you guide, O Saint Latex
As I lacquer drywall, trim, and doors,
Be the angel who from slips protects
Both plastered ceilings and hardwood floors.
(While the cat is drawn just like a moth
To bask in the floor-lamp for his nap
And purr himself asleep on the drop-cloth
Or--more likely--bunked down in my lap.)
Through all the boring prep demanding
Keep my perseverence evergreen
Tho' nostrils twitch from hardwood-sanding
And house redolent of Mr. Clean.
(While the cat is drawn just like a moth
To bask in the floor-lamp for his nap
And purr himself asleep on the drop-cloth
Or--more likely--bunked down in my lap.)
As the ladders up and down I swarm
Grant my clumsy limbs unwonted grace
Keep my toes and shins away from harm
And furniture now jumbled out of place.
(While the cat is drawn just like a moth
To bask in the floor-lamp for his nap
And purr himself asleep on the drop-cloth
Or--more likely--bunked down in my lap.)
But should you grant no other boon
Give a few days more of sunny clime.
Well I know that window closes soon
And I cannot be profligate with time.
(While the cat is drawn just like a moth
To bask in the floor-lamp for his nap
And purr himself asleep on the drop-cloth
Or--more likely--bunked down in my lap.)
Your name I will bless amid colours bright
When Winter bleaches earth and sea and sky
And in my office by monitor light
My digital craft once again I ply.
(While the cat is drawn just like a moth
To bask in my desk-light for his nap
And make his winter nest in blanket-cloth
Or--most likely--curl up in my lap.)
