Gatekeeper

The gate keeper sits proudly

In stony, serene silence

Sure of his own authority

Confident of his power

He asks a question

And expects his answer

Makes a silent note on his pad

Without emotion

Or hint or suggestion

Gate keeper

Looks at his watch

In a bored, distracted manner

While the answers tumble awkwardly

Off the tip of the tongue

Gatekeeper finishes

And closes his notebook

Goes through the automatic motions

Of polite courtesy

Gatekeeper determines fate

In small, petty matters

The Great Wall Revisited

Trails in the Snow

1991-1993