David Hadbawnik

Let’s not fight over the check that’s coming

all too soon; the waiter’s weaving through

the tables with his tray — we can’t split it,

either, there’s no going Dutch with Death who

demands payment in full, prompt and exact.

Hurry, there are diners hovering close by,

eager to take our place, coffee’s been served…

And though I try to pay my card’s declined,

my cash no good — so go ahead, add this

to all that