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Poetry: Out West

by Timothy Edward Jones

Oasis

Interstate 15 carves a path through the Mojave

Leading to the city made of lights and sin.

Two hours, maybe, from Barstow to Vegas

And a quick stop in Baker

For gas, coffee and cigarettes.

You are halfway from losing your savings

As the giant thermometer comes in to view.

Nothing but ominous desert and an asphalt

Carpet leading to rags or riches.

Whichever, we all live in the moment,

Dropping quarters, feeding bandits dollars

As long as the drinks keep coming.

Win A Car!

Drink At The Bar!

Either way, we will all go too Far!

Far beyond the point of normalcy

In that neon land of flourescent dreams

Where Elvis and Wayne will sing us back home

With empty pockets and full memories.

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