Saving Grace

Bored by the endless proceedings,
juror number seven hummed
his favorite gospel tune, not knowing
the judge was raised by a bible-toting
preacher who spoke in tongues
whenever the occasion allowed.

Decorum reverted to chaos
when said judge shouted hallelujah,
kicked off her heels,
and let the defendant go, with an unsaintly
kiss, plus seven days at the county jail.

Pris Campbell
2002

Published in The Dead Mule, Fall 2003

Poster by Norman Hudson at allposters.com
Music: Tell Me The Old Old Story

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