The Gutter

I discovered that I don’t love bowling.

It’s fine
Once in a great, long while
On the right day, with the right person
Two rounds, maybe
That’s plenty
Could be enough for the year,
Or longer, to be honest.

Not buying my own shoes
I’ll never join a league
Ask me for a rematch later
And I’ll make a vague gesture
And suggest table tennis. Or air hockey.

It’s okay if you love bowling
Roll that ball to your heart’s content
Bring other pals to the lanes
I don’t mind
Seems pretty important to you
To me,
Another vague gesture.

Just don’t suggest pizza
Then drive us to the alley
And point out the neon snack bar
(“Did you know this place has decent slices?”)
And suggest a round while we’re here
Because I’ll spare you the lecture
And find the door,
Ten pins left erect.