last minute debate instructions

we hear

them in the back room 

frantically giving

last minute

instructions

before the debate.

remember don't do that laugh

thing that you

do.

that weird cackle,

where your eyes

roll up into your head,

and don't point or 

wag your finger

like a school marm,

or go off on

tangents

about coconuts, or

yellow school buses,

or unburdening

what has

been burdened.

focus.

don't be soft, but don't be

mean either.

flip flop all you want,

don't worry,

people are basically pretty

dumb

and have poor

memories. it's not about

the issues

anyway, it's all about image.

here, let me wipe that

tabasco sauce

off your chin.

come on. you can do this.

straighten up

your pant suit,

down one more glass of wine,

and get out there.

we're in it to win.