Bill Newby
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​Bill Newby
Cardinal Rules
 
When young, I thought I had learned
all the cardinal rules.
 
Open the door.
Help her remove her coat.
Pull out her chair.
Walk on the curb side.
Pay the check.
 
Then, when I pledged a fraternity,
they taught us more.
 
How to receive and pass dishes.
Which silverware was for what course.
When to unfold and replace a napkin.
 
I even tried to learn the art of romantic verse
and delivered a few syrupy lines
in the heat of attraction.
 
But much later, I must have misplaced my invitation
to the next series of do’s and don’t’s,
and I’m still having trouble
making them second nature.
 
Put the toilet seat down.
Roll over when snoring.
Keep lights low and talk softly in the morning.
Never spy the scale’s read-out.
Don’t question memories in public.
 
Forgetting these new imperatives
can be very costly,
 
The penalty box is open.
 
   from Sea Chests or a Carry-On © Bill Newby, 2018

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  • Home
  • Books
  • Previews
    • Cardinal Rules
    • Eight Minutes & Forty-Six Seconds
    • Guy Talk
    • Target Practice
  • Reviews
    • Sea Chests or a Carry-On
    • Passing Through
  • Author
  • Contact