I.
Always wondered how those old-timers set so many fenceposts.
Now I’m replacing an old hard wood post that’s done its time
with a new one, milled round and freshly treated.It takes a long time to un-root the old stump
below where the cedar post finally rotted off,Stubborn stobs of one-time branches anchoring it to the ground.
With a great heave and expelled breath that old-timer finally lets go.
When I set my new post it fits right in the old hole.
But after tamping all the dirt back in...I wonder that it never fills the hole completely.
II.
It is good to have an intern, young and earnest
even if a little out of place in sneakers and sideways cap.I wonder what will happen with those low-belted pants
and grimace every time he leans over to dig.
I thought I was young, but he must think I’m old.
I allow that he’s got try, and I think he’s getting the hang of it now.
I turn him loose to replace a rotted-off old corner post.
The post is set, sturdy enough for now at least.
But the deadman is upside down and backwards...Like an old-timer rolling over in his grave.
