by Marshall Begel

“Hiring a private fire crew costs thousands of dollars a day… Some wealthy property owners are calling
them in directly.”
—The New York Times

For corporate investors, famous actors and their ilk,
I’ll don the red suspenders of asbestos-woven silk.
For I’m the firefighter of the rich and well-connected,
Where houses shown in magazines are rightfully protected.

With tunic by Armani, matched with flame-retardant pants,
I use the finest water from a mountain stream in France.
Oh, how I love to hear the children’s happy little voices,
When thanking me for saving their Jacuzzis and Rolls Royces.