("O. Henry" once worked in a drug-store in Greensboro, N. C.) WHERE once he measured camphor, glycerine, Quinine and potash, peppermint in bars, And all the oils and essences so keen That druggists keep in rows of stoppered jars -- Now, blender of strange drugs more volatile, The master pharmacist of joy and pain Dispenses sadness tinctured with a smile And laughter that dissolves in tears again. O brave apothecary! You who knew What dark and acid doses life prefers And yet with friendly face resolved to brew These sparkling potions for your customers -- In each prescription your Physician writ You poured your rich compassion and your wit! | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...VISIONS: 5 by WILLIAM BROWNE (1591-1643) ON DIGITAL EXTREMITIES by FRANK GELETT BURGESS ON LOOKING INTO GOLDING'S OVID by STEVE SCAFIDI JR. RAILWAY DREAMINGS by ALEXANDER ANDERSON ON THE WATERFRONT by WILLIAM ROSE BENET |