Ted Kooser

The Leaky Faucet


All through the night, the leaky faucet

searches the stillness of the house

with its radar blip: who is awake?

Who lies out there as full of worry

as a pan in the sink? Cheer up,

cheer up, the little faucet calls,

someone will help you through your life.


Ted Kooser

Garland, Nebraska



From Tundra #2.