On Election Night Outside Founding Fathers Pub 

There’s this strung-out guy hovering like a satellite

above the curb. He says his name is Job like in the Bible 

and I believe him. After chatting about our moms

he takes out the sock where he keeps his lucky pennies

and hands me the shiniest one. It’s brighter

than it probably should be. He doesn’t tell me

“you’re gonna need it” but he doesn’t have to.

Justin Karcher is a Best of the Net- and Pushcart-nominated poet and playwright from Buffalo, NY. He is the author of several books, including Tailgating at the Gates of Hell (Ghost City Press, 2015). Recent playwriting credits include The Birth of Santa (American Repertory Theater of WNY) and “The Buffalo Bills Need Our Help” (Alleyway Theatre). https://www.justinkarcherauthor.com