Lead Salesman
A3/28- Lead Salesman
Firm, firm legs
Firm enough to pedal his cargo
Smooth cheeks, briefcase, work clothes
Pressing on, no hands, over 2000 pounds
Cargo bike buckling when he does not
Steel tendons wrapping, warping, strained
At the door he offers tiles
12 by 12 by 4, numbered up to 64
His lips loosen, tongue unfurls
“Let me in. Learn for me. Stay a while.
Fill your calendar. Follow my lead. Be back another week”
He leaves a sample on the floor
New slate, sleek and fresh for the house’s core
Sit down, remember his words
“Back straight. Deep breaths. Closed eyes.
Let your lungs fill. Feel your chest rise.”
Weeks pass, maybe more
Every Sunday, salesman at the door
Shaggy beard, duffel bag, baggier clothes
Peddling’s hard, you suppose
Another week, factory tour
Tired legs snake the concrete floor
Precision cut, fine grain
Salesman’s words to dull the pain:
“A greater site. Out of state.
Endless tiles for door-to-door
Come with me, if that’s okay
Say the word. I’ll lead the way”