First Offense
 

I'm sorry, officer, I didn't see the sign
Because, in fact, there wasn't any.  I tell you
The light was green.  How much is the fine?

Will the tumor turn out malignant or benign?
Will the doctor tell us?  He said he knew.
I'm sorry, officer, I didn't see the sign.

Not every madman is an agent of the divine.
Not all who pass are allowed to come through.
The light was green.  How much is the fine?

Which is worse, the rush or the wait?  The line
Interminable, or fear of coming fate?  His anxiety grew.
I'm sorry, officer.  I didn't see the sign.

I'm cold sober.  All I had was one glass of wine.
Was anyone hurt?  Is there anything I can do?
The light was green.  How much is the fine?

Will we make our excuses like so many clever lines,
Awkwardly delivered?  Never to win, always to woo?
I'm sorry, officer.  I didn't see the sign.
The light was green.  How much is the fine?

--David Lehman