Work Type: Ray Romine Poems

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Her Eyes

Her eyes were the green of the turbulent sea,
And her lashes the ripples that dance rhythmically
Just over the surface from wave crest to wave.
I looked–and I dived–and I came up–her slave.

Now they change to the blue of an icey-hued star
That leaves me in wonder to worship, afar;
I gasp–yes, and thrill–but what man, I maintain,
Can spend his life loving a star–all in vain?

by Ray Romine Friday, January 5, 1945

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Hems & Haws Pause

“The truth is…. ” provides just the moment one needs
To [distort one’s answer ][misshape the story]
before one proceeds.

For [that] [some] fine mental dodging before one proceeds.

by Ray Romine Monday, August 1, 1949

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Help Yourself

Our national pastime–what is it, if any?
Is it baseball or football that pleases the many,
Or polo or golfing-or tennis or hockey,
Or boxing or watching the horse and the jockey?
And there are still others, but would you believe it–
MY PASTIME is eating, so take it or leave it!

For a hobby you read or you go see a talkie,
Or sleep in your chair if the radio’s squawky;
While some make collections of stamps or old money,
And some gaze at stars; others try to be funny.
But though men go for West and the women for Gable,
MY HOBBIY’S a parking place UNDER A TABLE ! !

For exercise now, do you run or go strolling
Or shoot bow and arrows, or go in for bowling?
There’re some keep their muscles in shape just by talking,
While some ride a horse and let him do the walking.
But I haven’t time for this fussing and fuming–
MY EXERCISE is, for a fact, ALL-CONSUMING!

by Ray Romine Tuesday, September 4, 1934

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Help Wanted

Some fellows are handy with hammer and nails,
And some rate as whizzes with drills;
And there still others of my smarter brothers
Who’re experts on furniture ills.

Some can hang paper successfully, while
Some with their painting draw praise;
Some can do wiring with little perspiring,
And others do wonders with lathes.

I know one bright fellow who fixes it when
His radio goes on the blink;
And there’s one super chap who can leak-proof a tap,
Or set up a new kitchen sink.

But of all these who putter, I’m cleverest for
My one talent. Please stop and peruse it:
While I can’t fix a thing that breaks down, still I’m king:
I’ve a phone–and I know how to use it!

by Ray Romine Saturday, September 27, 1952