Encores

Centuries took holidays

before these days

became desperately clear

that chariots full of Christmas cheer

could never draw the child near

but this year

one of the last remaining years

Santa Claus is a sniper

on the roof of Macy's

picking off the customers

splattering packages

and miscellaneous toes

everywhere.

Missionaries built milleniums

and caravans of cucumbers were exchanged

before the sin of sharing was uncovered

and the chocolate bayonets were deranged

but this year

one of the last remaining years

the soul brother reindeer

having nothing but nothing to fear

have destroyed all possessions

as the holiest of gifts.

Hymns have swallowed histories

and faded into love

before a winter full of autumns

had covered up their harmonies

but this year

though one of the last remaining years

the fading matinee idol

clutching the memories

of his almost unforgettable performance

turns sadly away

from the diminishing applause

of his most terrified believers.