***

years ago in dallas, texas lee harvey oswald
perched in a book depository window
waiting.

across the lawn was lyndon baines johnson,
vice-president,
patriot,
marksman.

crouching in the hot sun.

when the squib went off,
kennedy held his breath
for three days.

jackie was inconsolable.
ladybird brought her a new pink hat
like a miniature pillbox.

later, he woke up in a small villa
somewhere in south america
and marilyn monroe got away as soon as she could.