Words from a Teacher's Past, 102

“Words, words, words.”

—    Hamlet (2.2)

List #20: (i) rustic, (j) misdemeanor

“Is it a misdemeanor to

Live in this rustic style?

I ask this, Sir, because I see

You look around and smile.”

“A smile is not indictment,” said

The Sir who stood and smiled.

“A smile can be a compliment—

So, please do not get riled.”

“And so you like my cabin here?”

“Oh, yes, it’s quite the place!”

But still I couldn’t stand the look

He wore upon his face.

I took him to the woodpile, where

(And these are just the facts)

I introduced his smirking face

To my old friend, my axe.