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The Whistler
by
Nancy Scott


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A young man came to rent a room,
told me he had no job, no money.
How do you live? I asked.
I barter, he replied. I bet
you'd like a widescreen TV.
I shook my head.
Perhaps a new refrigerator?
I'd like the rent in cash.
A year's supply of frozen meat?
I'm a vegetarian.
He rapped his knuckles on the door,
I'll be back, he said,
and bounded down the front steps,
whistling.

 
From Down to the Quick (Plain View Press, 2006).
Used here with permission.

 




Nancy Scott was an author and artist in New Jersey. Managing editor of U.S. 1 Worksheets for more than a decade, she was the author of five full-length books and four chapbooks. Nancy began writing poetry in the mid-‘90s as a way to share experiences and insights from her earlier career as a social worker. Nancy's latest poetry collection, A Little Excitement, was named "first choice for summer 2021 reading" by North of Oxford. Her art was frequently hung in juried shows and, sometimes, her poetry and art were featured together.

 


Post New Comment:
Lori Levy:
Great ending.
Posted 05/18/2019 03:48 PM
Joeottinger:
Very clever!
Posted 05/18/2019 02:59 PM
joecot:
He should have offered poems...
Posted 05/18/2019 11:41 AM
Sharon Waller Knutson:
Nancy Scott is one of my favorite poets. I loved the fact that she turned a thief and con man into a barterer and whistler. I admire her talent, insight and wisdom.
Posted 05/18/2019 11:19 AM
Larry Schug:
I'll barter a poem for your eyes and ears. OK.
Posted 05/18/2019 06:55 AM


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