FOOTBALL

The field between Waterford and Newton lay

Quiet in the chill October afternoon until

The fattest pig was hauled there squealing

And tied to the Waterford Oak. Then Ralph Frierson,

The townsfolk around, stabbed it

And, with a yeoman's axe, hacked off its head.

Jack, the farrier caught it and ran until Tom

Newton socked him and the head dribbled to the ground -–

The first fumble.

Son, Ross, youth

To my ancient, fourteen years old lineman,

Remember what I have said when the quarterback

Passes the pigskin to the wide receiver;

A touchdown will assure the sprouting of crops.