He tucks a cigarette behind his ear
Then grabs it back and taps its filter end
Against the bar.  He takes a sip of beer,
Exchanging glances with his lady friend.

He fumbles for his lighter, puts it near
The unlit coffin nail, then leaves to spend
A penny, it appears. (It's yet unclear
The fire will ever find the burley blend.)

Returning now to Zippo and his dear,
He fiddles with a **** to make extend
A perfect jet to kiss the atmosphere,
Then gently lets the cigarette descend

To flame, inhaling deeply, blowing smoke--
Extinguishing a sudden urge to choke.