Chauffeurs

The magical lure from cruises in opulence
stretch before the hungry heart
as a grapevine plump with succulent gems,
offering the spellbound rides
on wheels ferry lives through luxuriant miles,
the scenery passes with its stunning and swaying power,
far from the neighborhoods
where the roads are poor and the drive tense,
while enduring terrain that is demanding and unforgiving.

Nobody complains
about wearing the chauffeur’s uniform
on the way to spotlights and tinsel,
pausing before throngs of envy,
hands on the steering wheel
clenched with such intensity
over the race towards deified destinations.

When the lease expires
so does the magnetism of the trip,
former employees
too busy filling out their leech applications
for standing in line at the bus stop
where the chariot to fame
ran out of gas.

Cell phones of placating
left on the seat
as they search for new ones
at the golden vehicle rental agency,
watching for help wanted signs
of those who are singing up for an agreement
always vowing such ardent passion
to be given permanent employment,
which will last
until purchaser’s contract ends.