the poet steps up to the podium
they turn to the page that is marked
grin at the crowd
and begin
by recalling how to breathe

"Are they choking?"

"Is this part of it?"

"No, I think that they are actually choking."

"No couldn't be, it's part of the show, relax."

the crowd applauds
with many a cheer and shout

then retreating to the exit signs
with a body on the floor

if anyone asks

it's too late,
the poet has died

choking on ideas.

"What were they choking on?"

"No idea."