You can thank us later

Brother charro
do you realize
that it is because of escaramuza
that you have an audience?

Our performances
are the most anticipated part of  the show
If it was just the men
you’d have three people in the stands

It is true, we get 8 minutes
and you get 8 hours
but trust me—
the kids, parents, brothers
and sisters in the stands
come especially for those 8 minutes

Where else can you see
such elegant sportsmanship?

Notes:

This poem is part of the portfolio “Escaramuza, the Poetics of Home.” You can read the rest of the portfolio in the April 2025 issue

Source: Poetry (April 2025)