Skins of the Season

The fish skin in the gentle spring

     Attracts the most attention;

The trout and shad and other fish

     Too numerous to mention.

In summer time the horsehide comes

     Around the sphere revolving;

A million people watch its course

     Their precious time absolving.

With autumn comes the football squad,

     Just listen to the chorus;

On every hand, in every school

     The pigskin is before us.

In winter time? Oh yes, we have

     Another one, a hummer!

When you size up the other three

     Pray don’t forget the plumber.

Nov. 11, ‘10

Changed published versions:

“A million fans pursue its course

        Their precious time absolving.”

“In winter time? Oh yes, we have

        One still, a reg’lar comer!”