The Arrogant Cruiser
The swan-like ship gleams in Key Biscayne Bay.
Smoke billows – anxious to begin this journey.
Boarding passes checked by a man in white.
Tourists attired in pastels unpack cruise clothes.
Proud Mary stands on “A” Deck.
She snobbishly identifies expensive cigar smoke.
Harbor winds pick up.
Three low blasts announce:
“All ashore that is going ashore!”
Mary bends her arm. Places a jeweled hand
Atop her red, wide-brim hat.
She lifts her self-honored nose and attached chin.
Mary’s fading eyes fix on the overhead lifeboat.
In formal script – the name of this mother ship.
“Queen Mary”
“Indeed” she concurs.
-MARIA BOLING