introduction

meet mr. theory & not mr. practice what you preach.

he’s getting close to forty 

& doesn’t like the prospect of it: who would? 

he knows well that hate is too strong of a word 

but it’s the only one that fits

when it comes to how he makes his living,

to how he digs his grave.

he drinks too much or expects too much, 

asks too many questions 

or seeks too many resolutions,

too many peace treaties.

meet him now while he’s —quote, unquote— 

in a charitable mood,

before he sends everyone, including himself, 

to you know where. 

it’s his MOS or military occupational specialty,

under normal circumstances.

hear him out before he blows his brains out,

before he realizes it’s the only 

commendable thing to do.

lie to him before the truth comes out,

first & last impressions are not his forte.

c. a. campos, 2010