Poet’s showcase

As Coffins Roll By
By Larry Rochelle

rigid figures pace restlessly
the search goes on and mavens
practice flute solos, drum rolls,
mastery over men concludes,
straight lines form,
and khaki trousers,
razor-edged, cut tight,
their lines so keen,
kenning the practicality
of soldiers’ might,
awesome,
even beautiful,
before the fateful night.

— Larry Rochelle is an English professor at Johnson County Community College.