TheBanyanTree: melencholy zanni

[Dave]

the big top is striking
shills running from the rain
cirkies are caked to the knee
the dust changing to mire 
gaffer drinks in his room
he feels burned out 
though he's never been on fire
rubes slowly make their way home
windshield wipers slapping at the downpour
the shivaree echoing in their heads

Joey I'm sorry it makes you sad
I feel for your silent rage
the rain is smearing your sins
a dollar for the swag
but the pitchmen's song is free
a sawbuck in your pocket
to get you to the next town
empty as the midway
lonely as a freight car
desolate streets and empty glares
where the zanni painted smile makes no sense

the sky will still rain
even down the road
where the sun is lost
and the ringmaster sips warm beer
under the wind blown marquee

Joey don't feel bad
or remove your smile
don't lose your heart
Joey...
don't leave us


Dave