Sea Legs

by The Shins

I'm The Lifeguard

There are waves in the river
Pushing dirty leaves downstream.
There are insects screaming
To the pleasure of other bugs.
This day is restless.
Other leaves, still green are waiting
To blush and die.
It's August and the party has arrived.
The grass is drying,
Kids are being face-painted with
Dripping yellow ice cream in their hands.
Other kids are playing arcade games
Behind the reflection of trees
On the large glass windows.
Adults are watching, smiling, waiting for beer.
Some of this party are having their caricatures drawn.
A few want to swim.
A few want to canoe.
Empty white chairs surround empty tables.
The white tablecloth matches the theme.
And they call this work.
On the Big Darby the pontoon boat is making waves.
And I'm the lifeguard.