Thumbing
(Splash) I’m tired. I’m cold.
My feet are wet
(Splash, splash)
My calves hurt from walking backwards with my thumb out.
High beams,
Bright (Hand covering my eyes.) headlights.
Come on, come on, come (splash) on.
Will I ever find a dry spot?
Headlights (low-beams. I smile.).
I’m not a rapist. I’m a good guy,
I promise.
(Splash) You bastard!
Damn, it’s cold.
Headlights (Don’t forget to smile)
Try to look normal.
Shit! A station wagon (Splash)
How far to the nearest motel?
How much money do I have?
I’m tired.
Headlights (low beams. Smile.)
Please stop, please …..
Is he slowing down?
No …. is he?
All right!!
“Thanks, mister.”!!
Roy W. Backes
© 1989
Roy W. Backes - Poetry 