It makes all
the sense
in the world.

St. Maturinus,
you are the patron saint
for all of us who work

the exorcism, the divine magic
of clogged pipes, fussy toilets
and the mysterious detours

in the travels of water.
Is it hard to believe
that we have grown

so soft, so dependent
on indoor plumbing,
the luxury and comfort

of modern times?
Well, it is good
for business.

You cast out devils
and were sainted.
I cast out

less lofty obstructions
and all the lingering
doubts and misgivings

surrounding the lives
of sinks and toilets,
showers and drains.

I know my bill is high,
but it is what it is.
You might even

claim I overcharge.
Mea culpa,
Mea culpa,

Mea maxima culpa –
the only latin
that stuck with me.

Overcharge? I could
reclog your drain,
re-stop the toilet,

bring an end
to the clear flow,
the resounding flush?

I thought not.
The cost
of modern exorcism

is always expensive.
I take cash,
check or charge.

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