The day after I turn four, my country
(the government that is) okays the sneaks
in overcoats, their covert gallantry
spiced by zapping foreign leaders. Blank checks
help set up coups, while Project Bluebird rigs
mind control as my candles burn seven.
My last year in high school, the Bay of Pigs
sends Company heads rolling. Eleven
summers post, McCord et al blow the break
at Watergate, prompting Congress to don
spyglasses. I’m forty-four, the Hill takes
on Iran-Contra. Will the sneaks be gone?
When I’m fifty-eight, they’re back in power
as mad Muslims fell New York’s twin towers.
Roger Armbrust
May 16, 2007
