Not All Differences are Subtle

Maps are important

angle of the sun falling on winners

is different

depending on which side of the equator

the ball rolls

Up in the stands luck counts for nothing

All fouls are intentional

after the fact

The game must go on

No gaps to exploit

Chances come some say

without interference from the gods

politicians and athletes are alike

not much

In the heat of the game money

plunked down 

over lunch 

counts for little

not so in the corridors of political
power

where impotence 

or whatever absence of tumescence is called

can be excused with cold hard cash

No matter how much the players want it

in world cup play

when the ball is cast down

and the chase begins

Money on the line

doesn’t decide anything

like prayer

Interceptions don’t count

if a goal doesn’t follow

Looking right and left

makes as much sense as looking up

In the game having more hair

or none at all

counts for nothing

in the penalty box

Overtime

winning is winning

nonetheless