(Apologies to A.E. Housman)

Is my team playing
That I once used to coach?
I stood proud upon the bench
My word beyond reproach.

Yes, the players dangle,
The new coach whistles well.
No change though you are behind
The bars that form your cell.

Are fans still coming –
To fill the chilly rink?
To watch the boys chase rubber
Though I but stare and think.

Yes, the puck is flying,
The guys play just as hard.
The fans are out in numbers,
Support has not been marred.

Are the guys happy
That I thought hard to leave?
And are they tired of reading
And do they still believe?

Yes, they go on living
Much as they had before.
They seem quite well contented,
My friend, they know the score.

Is there any sign
That I had been that way?
Or did they find a system –
Another way to play?

Yes, they did that easy
Now you’re no longer here.
Your name is never mentioned;
You have not been cheered.

Copyright Paul Heno 1998