h e n d e r s o n' s  o l d  b a r n

Please don't build that schoolhouse
in the field next to Henderson's old barn.

Before the schoolhouse come
men to cut down trees,
tear up soil, pollute streams,
entomb wildlife within wood and brick coffins.

After the schoolhouse come
yellow school busses,
gas stations, school play traffic jams,
landfill for all their garbage.

After the schoolhouse come
plate glass malls with
Chinese Pizzerias, Bargain Basements,
Chapter 13 anchor stores.

After the schoolhouse come
Hideaway Springs Mountain Valley Danube Lullaby Estates
with shear, stark, hear through plaster walls,
a four by ten foot balcony view of the 18th hole,
a pool and playgrounds for the kids.

Have you heard enough yet?
Think about it while I get more paper.