These twenty poems and twenty paintings represent Scott Poole’s 10th book of poetry and his sixth collaboration of poetry and art.

For future generations wondering what 2025 was like

First, steal the crappiest

vehicle you can find.

Drive breakneck to Vegas,

go to Circus Circus

and eat one of those clowns.

Not eat with a clown,

not eat while watching a clown—

please: eat a clown.

Find one you can barbecue.

Yes, it sounds disgusting,

but trust me—

shake on salt, pepper,

paprika, whatever.

I don't care.

After someone force feeds it

down your gullet

and you drive back

the long lonely road

of everything you never thought

would happen—

did—

try to smile

and not throw up.

Then you'll know.