Penny Arcade

Here's an often underestimated and overlooked piece the poet wrote not that long ago, about the small amount of courage it takes to take on the everyday challenges, and the joy of them. Some read it as dark, I read it as still hanging onto the childlike wonder at everyday life.

Penny Arcade

life is a penny arcade
where you drop your dirty copper moments
trace moments
into the slot of chance
and seize the handles,
waiting for the raw shock
that challenges your will
and tests your desire to win
nothing more than bragging rights

then you
step right up
to the next machine
the metaphor
with more neon
and a sign that reads
"Try Your Luck
Two Cents"
and grab the handles


William F. DeVault. all rights reserved.