Procrastination

Having trouble facing facts.
Less time than I think I have.
Red pen at the ready? Stop.
Pick up papers; put them down.
Read a chapter. (Someone else's.)
Fill out British crossword puzzles.
Read another Updike chapter.
Watch the news then change the channel.
Take a nap and dream of gliders--
Eagles, skaters, kites, and bobsleds.
Jog around the streets and shower.
Cook a meal and eat it slowly.
Reconsider random deadlines.
Strain to reach the bedside table.
Choose a pen--the red or black one?
Black it is, plus virgin parchment;
Easier to write a poem.