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201 · May 2020
Not Much to Direct
Neville Johnson May 2020
I recently directed my first romcom
Starred new talent who met on the set
There was a spark between them
The grips and gaffers could see
They didn't need much direction
When it came to the love scenes
They wanted more retakes
They insisted on rehearsing outside of my presence
They told me it was method acting
Then they stopped acting altogether
It became the truth
The show was a hit
Oh well, I’m onto the next production
They got married and had a kid
something light in these troubled times
200 · Oct 2018
My Sun
Neville Johnson Oct 2018
To hear you sigh
To see you laugh
To know that you are near
Invokes the deepest feelings
One could ever have
Life may be evanescent
But our love is not
You make it real
You make it hot
Filled with warm love
Cooler than any breeze
We sail through life
Finally, I’m at ease
Which is all to say
My dear special one
I live for you
You are my sun
Neville Johnson May 2019
Hard work and grumpy compromise
That’s how romance works
But it’s silk and velvet most of the time
Though you can’t avoid
The trials and tribulations
That get in the way
It’s the good times we cherish
On our unending trail

I spent years without her
So I appreciate each day she is with me
A treasure I must say
We don’t have ups and downs
Maybe little bumps
Everyone has some
No problem for a love that’s tough

It’s easy does it most of the time
It’s good despite our quarrels
I don’t mind
Sometimes even she is right
I’ll eat some crow and it will be fine
It’s all good
200 · Dec 2018
Precious Star
Neville Johnson Dec 2018
Know that I love you
Know that I care
Know that ours is a love to share
Forever I am yours
Here and now
And everywhere

Strong and lovely
So lively and pretty you are
For I loved you then
As I love you now
My precious star
200 · Oct 2017
Us
Neville Johnson Oct 2017
Us
She keeps me up late at night
That's just fine
Cookies and kisses
Mine all mine
Chatter that matters
I get the inside story
How we share
Mutual admiration
Falling off a log
It's so easy to love her
Building rapport
There is a God

She gets me up in the morning
Makes my day
Gets me going
Here to stay
198 · Jun 2019
Always Have, Always Will
Neville Johnson Jun 2019
From the first time we met
To today and forevermore
You’ve been and will be in my heart
That’s for sure

It’s your kind and gentle spirit
The insouciance
Those knowing eyes
That tantalize
Make me realize
That I always have
That I always will
Love you
Yes I always have
I always will
Love you

Today is like every other
We’re secure and OK
We’ve got each other
Always all the way
And I know you and I
Are meant for each other
That’s why
I always have
I always will
Love you
Yes I always have
I always will
Love you

It’s the way that you comfort me when I’m down
It’s knowing you’re there for me
That you’re always around
It’s the past, present, future
Always to be
It’s us together
You and me

I know you and I
Are meant for each other
That’s why
I always have
I always will
Love you
Yes I always have
I always will
Love you
197 · May 2019
A Kid’s Thoughts
Neville Johnson May 2019
Daddy’s typing
He usually is
On deadline, he always says
That’s his biz
Covering politics
See him fume
Sometimes we talk about it at dinner
What’s the world coming to?
Fake news?
Daddy’s typing
Click, click, click
On deadline

But he is always there for me
Advice and consolation
Little league
Good conversation

He does investigations
Of big problems in our nation
He discovers
He uncovers
Then he relates
To the public
In the paper
It often excites

So we love him
Yes we love him
Daddy types away
Click, click, click
Daddy’s typing
Daddy saving the day!
196 · Jun 2019
Rowboats on Lakes
Neville Johnson Jun 2019
Here’s the formula: you and me
Ok, we’ll have some quarrels
Every couple does
But it will all be great
I’ll make the money
You will spend it
We both have voracious appetites
For knowledge, fun and dare I say, smooching!
I promise rowboats on lakes
Even some rafting
Good hats for your alabaster skin
And lots of laughter
Yes, all for you
I’ll get to share in it
Life is good
Been that way ever since we met
193 · Feb 2023
The Story of Ben and Agnes
Neville Johnson Feb 2023
Ben is a baker with a twinkle in his eye
He can sure make a cake
Seth is a regular customer with a sweet tooth for his fudge
He loves the jocularity and wit of sweet Ben
With his chef’s hat he is jauntily attired
As he seems to live life as a whim
Seth has a daughter, sweet Agnes
Pretty as sugar is sweet
So he has the notion to create a magical potion
He needed them to meet
Seth sent her in on a many a foray
To retrieve pastries he so likes
Ben eventually took notice and he began to like
This darling girl in ringlets and pearls
She was such a sight
One thing led to another
It’s fifty years on with many grandsons
And their youngest, a granddaughter
She comes around with regularity
Helps with the baking and always says “please”
192 · Mar 2022
Braiding
Neville Johnson Mar 2022
Somewhere between bitter and sweet
Where the moon greets the sun
In the thicket of the tall grass maze
Such is love when finding its way
Unsure how it will end
Losing yourself into someone else
You bend and bond
And graze on the touches, the kisses, the asides
When it works, oh boy,
Will it be golden moments?
Or golden memories?
So delicate is love
And the chase that leads to it
Braiding the bond
Braiding the bond of love
192 · May 2021
On Sunsets
Neville Johnson May 2021
I was born the day I met you
And I died the day you left
It was perfect in between
We were on a quest
Chasing rainbows
We found the gold
Walks on sandy beaches
We never got cold
Rainbows are ephemeral
They only last so long
I’ve never figured out
Why it is we went wrong
Dreams can become reality
That happened to us
Then it all evaporated
There’s nothing left to see
Sometimes I dream of the past
The way we used to be
When I see a sunset
I think of you and me
192 · May 2022
Arrival
Neville Johnson May 2022
The difference she’s made
Loved this sad sack of a man
Into a winning dude
Grumpiness left
What a success
Life finally arrived
We hooked up together
It’s so much better
We do it in style
Yes, the difference she’s made
Now I behave
Doing so willingly
She showed up
Once she did
Finally I arrived
190 · Nov 2017
Evermore
Neville Johnson Nov 2017
Just because I'm with another
That doesn't mean I don't love you anymore
This is a private display of affection
That's what songs are for

Things don't always work out the way you want
I will always treasure the time we had
We hit it off right away
We couldn't avoid the inevitable
We were on our way
So full of hope and promise
But not meant to be

Now the shade of time
Colors our sweet, fragrant memory
I can taste but not touch you
From our past I cannot flee
Hopeless and helpless
Gone from each other you and me
In a love that lasts forever
I'm the shore, you are the sea
189 · May 2023
Lattes in the Morning
Neville Johnson May 2023
Kisses in the rain
Walks along the shore
Lattes in the morning
That and so much more
Sighs that were simultaneous
We could not believe our luck
Life was a dream to live
For we had found each other
No way would we be stuck
In love’s doldrums
With the wind at our backs
It all turned out perfectly
Yeah, we can relax
The road goes on endlessly
Our endeavor so sure
To make the best of our true bond
That’s what we ensure
Neville Johnson Jul 2022
He stood in front of the apartment
Staring at her floor above
He wanted to see her so badly
So much was he in love
Tantalized, he fantasized
What their life would be
It was as close as he would ever get
In the land of make-believe

That was many years ago
Yes, he has moved on
But some days he still passes by that place
As early as dawn
And he remembers, and softly says to himself
“How happy were those days,
When we took the chance on our brave romance,”
Then he sighs and goes on his way

Lost love, sad love
Better than none at all
He still loves her so very much
He gave his all

He will always feel this way
One of these days he hopes to see her again
Still his one which makes him so lonely
God bless her, Amen
188 · Jul 2022
Mama Said
Neville Johnson Jul 2022
Mama said "You'll know."
She was right
There was someone meant for me
When it was right, I would know who was the one

I used to stand on the shore
Wondering where or when
Once I thought I knew
But she was just a friend

I thought time would pass me by
Life is like the wind
It goes and flows and can't be stopped
Each day different

But it's all the same when there is no one
To share a love together
I like spending time alone, but not every day!
And so it was for so long
Me, myself and I
Until the day my someone appeared
I can't deny

That I love her, that I know she is the one
Mom was right, I just knew
No more on the run
I knew then I still do
Love is surely fun
187 · Jan 2020
Naming Names
Neville Johnson Jan 2020
It is quite an event!
Gerry Atric is old enough to know that Joshua Tree isn’t the right guy for Marine Layer. Anyway, she is more interested in Donny Brook, who had just broken up with Dee Ported, for obvious reasons. There they are, carousing on the Sunset Strip: Perry Winkle, Penny Farthing, Miss Understanding and Poppy ****, when who walks in --- Sara N Dippity, with ***** Nilly and Sal Amander, one on each arm!
Now Sara used to be the significant other of Mort Ify, before him, Pete Moss, before him, Charlie Horse and before him, Al Luminum! Go figure. That leaves Tess Osterone who cannot though she tries, attract any of these fine fellows, so she nurses a drink with Terri Ble, and wails about her latest disappointment with Con Descending.
Trying to calm the situation is Herb Tea, but even he ends up having cross words with **** Tatorial, who finally splits with Paddy Wagon in tow and heads over to see Tia Juana, and if they have time, Nan Tucket.
Why General Jive and Warren Peace are huddled has yet to be explained. Oblivious to all of us Mac Aroon and Junior Mints, shared tasty morsels and a libation with Amber Beer.
Preppy dressed Cord Uroy hangs with the stylsh Art Ist, each trying to make a move on Joy D. Vivre, but they are stopped by Moe Mentum , who had the inside track up until Scott Free, Gus To and Juan Derful surround the crowd, each trying to make some time with her.
Consider Lilli Put conversing with Al Falfa, while Rich People and Cord Cutter trying to listen in, but are thwarted by Mari Gold who interfered with that desire as she was shouting epithets at Con Undrum, who doesn’t know what to do. Miss Issippi cruises in and with Molly Fi, who tries to calm the situation. Watching from the corner is Bob Cat, wary of Miss Creant, who is eying him, all while she is being scoped out by Val I Date.
If life is sometimes a desert, Mo Have personifies it; he has his own problems trying to get out of the way of Uri Nalysis, who is just plain trouble. Jonathan Club is his usual convivial self, making conversation with Trey Chrotomy, who keeps clearing his throat. I was amazed to see Leo **** getting dressed down by Dinah Mite, supported in her criticism by Dee Mise.
Let us turn to the artistic arrivals: Marshall Amp and Art Professor, both adding some zest to the gathering, enabled in part by the always attractive Dee Colletage. Bill O’Lading is a bore until he jumps into the drink with Jac Uzzi, accompanied by Nat Ural, as they view the valley below and drink champagne with Elle Vation. Bobbi Pin pops everyone’s balloon by getting wasted and along with Cara Van is asked to leave. But this paled in comparison to Al Abaster attacking Ana Conda for hitting on her significant other, Tom A. Hawk.
Everyone stays away from Hal Itosis except Sue Venir and Mel Lifluos who avoids discussing the obvious. Commiserating and having a bad time are Marg Inal and June Gloom, but then they’re always that way when they get together.
Moving up in the world is Val Et, with her new recruit, Ann Appolis, decked out in a matching outfit with Lily White. Terry Dactl flew in to convince Dee Nial she had a true friend in Mother Nature, but that she should get a second opinion from Al Egory, any to hear what Brandy Alexander had to say as long as she was not slurring her words.
Everybody loves Gus To, he’s so nice to everyone, even the plain Lyn Olium and the depressing Miss Ann Thrope. We aren’t sure what to make of Sal Amander, who seemed a bit slimy, especially coupled with Beau Dacious. What were they up to? Dan Ube engaged Earnest Money to find out. He reported they were going to fleece Dan Druff and Butch Haircut, who should not invest in their hair-brained scheme.
Al Abama buttered up Cy Pres, hoping for some charity, while Minnie Scule and Tara Bite made an unlikely duo. “Respect” said Jen Uflect, that’s what everyone deserves, as she curtsied at the arrival of Caesar Salad. “Ha, ha, ha,” Heidi ** merrily exclaimed, joined by the mysterious I Stanbul. All he did was complain about the political situation.
Mary Me cannot get enough of Al Falfa, though she would have done better with the always engaging Mo Zart. Too bad he is always with Tom Foolery and Cass Anova, both with questionable motives. I know for a fact that Beau Dacious has crashed this party, pretending to have an invite from Des Ire. Outside, mystified by the diverse assemblage stands Papa Razzi, camera in hand. Hal Leluha tries to talk his way in, but gets nowhere is he is not on the list, says party planner Claire Ify. Mel Ifluous, on the other hand, though not an invitee, does get past the velvet rope, which I surmise is because he is with that wealthy Main Liner, Phil Adelphia.
Back inside the party I encounter Lazy Susan having a drink with Bud Weiser.  Here’s an unusual assortment: Guy Dance, Major Minor, Hazel Nuts and Scott Free. His choice of clothing questionable, Lee Derhosen paints a pretty picture about his life to Al Fresco, who is dismissive. Maybe that is because Mo Hawk puts him down, but he gets some protection from Val Id. Dee Tatched, never a joiner, talks business with Perry Mutual, who is threatened by his nemesis, Vito Power. Jungle Jim back from his travels, has a new mate, Lazy Susan, she having moved on from Leo ****.
How Riff Raff got an invite is shocking and I hope he will depart soon with Lee Ving, Bob N Weave, and Con Descenion. Louis Ville slugs it out, batting away the negative but truculent comments of Claire Ification. Tim Buktu acts like he is in another country, causing Mort Ified to hang his head, all made worse by the mutterings of Carrie On.
Mentor Ing tries to advise Con Flagration to cool it and is helped by
Dolly Grip and Frank Lee Speaking. Stu Pendus addresses each issue raised by Bill O’ Particulars, but he cannot allay the suspicions of Artie Choke, finally saying he must be in a vegetative state if he cannot understand the implications of what he proposes. Bo Tox just stood there, trying to look good.
The last to leave is Senor Ity. Phil Harmonic and June Bug drive him home where he lives with Dana Point and Sherman Oaks.
I always do word play at the first of the year.
187 · Apr 2018
Giving Thanks
Neville Johnson Apr 2018
Fundamental, sentimental
That’s you and me
Falling in, being in love
Is the degree with which we’ve graduated
What we have and believe
A unified spirit are we
A force of nature that breathes
With excitement and gratitude
A great story it is
Full of hope and dreams
A by-gosh and by-golly cornucopia
Of amazing memories and scenes
Like the time we kissed on a mountaintop
That week in Paris
Traipsing through Iceland
All starring you and me
We just keep going
Cannot get enough
So very tasty, delectable
Just constant good stuff
More, please
186 · Mar 2022
Hungry in the Lonely City
Neville Johnson Mar 2022
Hungry in the lonely city
That's me on the street
Minding my own business
Incomplete
Motor running, no place to go
Collar upturned
Cold wind on the blow
I'm easygoing
I'm very sincere
I just gotta find my somewhere
I don't think it's here

The friends I once had have all gone away
To jobs, to the army, to other arms
They've got kids on the way
This is the middle of nowhere
I've got the sense that I'll be much happier
If I head way out west

I got this cool car, an SUV
It'll sleep me just fine
No more wait and see
I'll chuck this job at my Dad's laundry
Head for the coast, Huntington Beach
I got a friend there, Billy Joe White
He says it's a cool scene
More than all right

Hungry in the lonely city
Yeah, that's me tonight
But tomorrow I'll be heading out
In the dawn's early light
186 · Sep 2024
All For You
Neville Johnson Sep 2024
All for you baby
You’re always number one
I’ve had other lovers
But they’re over with and gone
It’s just you and me from now on
The way it shall be
It’s you I love
It’s you and me

Can we make it together?
You asked, as we lay side to side
I nodded yes, I knew inside
We are true lovers
We are meant to be

It’s knowing and believing
Faith and hope combined
Perfect clarity
Two lives defined
The future so bright
Our souls entwined

So good it felt
So good it still feels
We found our truth
It’s you and me
184 · Aug 2019
Certified for Publication
Neville Johnson Aug 2019
This is certified for publication
Let the whole world know
Shout if from the mountaintops
Let the football horn blow
Put it on billboards
Say it on the evening news
Everybody has got to know
About me and you
Neville Johnson Nov 2017
He stood in front of the apartment
Staring at her floor above
He wanted to see her so badly
So much was he in love
Tantalized, he fantasized
What their life would be
It was as close as he would ever get
In the land of make-believe

That was many years ago
Yes, he has moved on
But some days he still passes by that place
As early as dawn
And he remembers, and softly says to himself
“How happy were those days,
When we took the chance on our brave romance,”
Then he sighs and goes on his way

Lost love, sad love
Better than none at all
He still loves her so very much
He gave his all

He will always feel this way
One of these days he hopes to see her again
Still his one which makes him so lonely
God bless her, Amen.
183 · Nov 2018
Happy Thanksgiving
Neville Johnson Nov 2018
Everyone is so nice
Everywhere
So you wonder why there is strife
It’s not fair
We the people don’t want it
Anymore
Anywhere

Peace
We want peace
From now on
Each of us
All of us
Everyone
We want just to live
Enjoy the air we breathe
It’s the same old sun for all of us
In love we believe

So everybody
Everywhere
Time for us to truly share
182 · Mar 2019
Lawyers
Neville Johnson Mar 2019
Lawyers aren’t all bad
Some do a lot of good
Advocates for the public
Fighting for your rights
With justice the crucible
Nice but fraught with difficulty
Conflict is the norm
Determination and cleverness required
I admire these colleagues of mine
Their spirit energizes and inspires me
They make a difference
A big one, in the lives of many
All for our common benefit
181 · Mar 2020
Houseboat
Neville Johnson Mar 2020
The bride was a widow, the bridegroom a widower and that’s where the story begins
She never thought she’d find another and certainly not him
He, for his part, was down on his way to out in a kind of middle aged funk
But there they were in Sausalito
It’s houseboats, who woulda thunk?
Corrine is a writer of mysteries, fond of wearing chic hats
She types away all day and looks at the Bay
With coffee and two Siamese cats
Downright laconic on the SS Ironic
Which needs some marine repairs
She called for help to get rid of the kelp
And voila, Big Bill appears
Brash and tough was he she thought
But with charms that did disarm
The fiction writer is
In need of a brighter reality, a depth charge
So they collided avec wine as the high tides washed upon their feet
Now undivided, the Lord has provided a place and a time, a destiny
For two who lost love but found it again
On the water
It’s no mystery
181 · Jan 2019
Free Love
Neville Johnson Jan 2019
I don’t believe in free love
But I know that love can set you free
Sometimes a delicate balance
Sometimes misery
But through it all is the constant
The faith that keeps the glow
It’s love that keeps me going
That I surely know
181 · Jul 2018
Former Lover
Neville Johnson Jul 2018
I’ve had a good life without you
But I’m still in a daze
Whenever I see you
And remember those days
When we were together
So amazed at the power of love
How it changed us both for the better
It was a long time ago
I’ve always loved you
I know you know
Every day since
And I’m not kidding about this
I’ve thought about you
I reminisce
That I miss your sweet voice
One so sincere
Our love was real
It won’t disappear
You’re happy, I know
A great family
I am too
The way it should be
It’s been so great to visit
You mean so much to me
180 · Jan 2024
Naming Names
Neville Johnson Jan 2024
Hope Less says to Merri Way that Frank Ly has been on her mind ever since Dana Point hooked up with Tim Id. Bea Serious, overhearing this, scoffs noting that Hy Perbole has been dissuaded from this notion.
          Enter Cliff Hanger, Adam Ant and Murray Hill who were hiding from Colin Oscocopy and Ty Lenol also following the same rumor, but they are shushed by Roman A. Clef who says he knows the real story.
          This occurs at the church social organized by Dawn Patrol. Bill Collector and Donny Brook watch from the periphery. Then comes the shouting: April Fools, Chuck Wagon, Moe Mentum and Ruth Less get into politics: it is a no-win situation. Fortunately, Benedict Ion, with the cunning Bob Cat is able to calm the situation.
          Di Alysis, new to town, chats up Peg Leg and Al Gorhythym, laughing about the antics of ***** Nilly and 2 Dollar Bill but Luke Warm is iffy about what he views.
         Rock Bottom, that sad sack, tries his luck with Miss Matched, getting nowhere and is unhappy to see Ray O’Sunshine barge into the conversation as he orders Mart Ini to join in with Lazy Susan.
         Uh oh, here comes ****** Mary with Mel N. Choley who has the nerve to tell Pete Moss he smells.
         Terri Yaki sits with Will Power who, dieting, will not eat. They sit at the same table as Rich N Glamorous, Patty Melt and Miss Quoted.
         Here’s where it gets weird --- Ben E Fit cannot get away from Polly Amorous who pursues him relentlessly while he tries to put moves on the audacious Bo Dacious.
         Hugh Tensils and the aptly named Nick Named joyously interact with Deb It and Dad Nabit, narrowly escaping a falling chandelier which is prevented from harming anyone by Nick O’Time, who is always in the right place at the right time.
         Ty ****, known for being parsimonious hangs with Corporal Punishment, an unwelcome party crasher
          Ray Gun seeks out Phil Anderer to ask about the latest concoction of his pal Al Chemy, learning that he been experimenting with Joy Ride, Long John and Phil Istine.
          Justice Delayed and Justice Denied sit at separate tables refusing to interact with each other.
179 · Nov 2017
Night in the City
Neville Johnson Nov 2017
Night in the city awaits
After light from the day
Wandering about
I'm finding my way
Some people are pushy
That’s OK
Adventure awaits
I will react at the right time and place
That’s a natural fact
I'm at ease but alert
I got my own back
When darkness arrives
I head into it
Alone in the masses
Most of us fitting in
I like the action that comes with the night
Elusive my quarry, but my attitude conducive to it all turning out right
With no expectations, I put up no fight
I roll with the waves, take in the sights
It is night in the city
Adventure awaits
179 · Aug 2024
Memories and Dreams
Neville Johnson Aug 2024
Memories and dreams
Sometimes run together
Blasts from the past
Keeping us alive
As the years roll around
The recollections remain vivid
The solid ground of living
The love that lives on
From the time that now is gone

They linger and flicker
Tasty mental hors d’ouvres
That almost satisfy
Lord, didn’t we have a time?
Sweet nostalgia
That brings a weepy smile
For the good times we had
And for what we missed
For the love we shared
For the times we kissed

It’s not anybody’s fault
Things just turned out this way
We are lovers like no others
In those yesterdays
Leaving memories and dreams
Oh those joyous times of yore
I’ve had a good life
Really couldn’t ask for more
179 · Jun 2019
My Generation
Neville Johnson Jun 2019
My name is Millie, his is Dave
We spend time together
We make love at his cave
That’s what he calls his dormitory
What confuses is him and me
What are we doing?
Where are we at?
I want to know
But I’m afraid to ask
When I try to engage on the topic
He puts me off with a laugh
Or a look, he evades
Is this love or just hooking up?
What is this stage?
No labels, no drama
Is this what it’s about?
If he’s not my boyfriend, what is he?
What am I?
I’m going to be brave
If there’s an argument, so be it
Time to hash this out
I can’t live like this
Maybe I’ll quit
178 · Apr 2023
The Goodbye
Neville Johnson Apr 2023
It came is such a shock
That final goodbye
What, our relationship ends for good then and there?
Left to die?
Just a brief goodbye?
What am I supposed to do with these memories?
Not to mention our hopes and dreams
What am I supposed to do about us?
Now blown to smithereens
This is the problem with human relations
So fragile is this world
That thing called love
Hello sadness, bye-bye girl
How easy it is to hurt someone
What is the remedy when love is lost?
I had it all planned out
In a puff of smoke my plans were tossed
177 · Dec 2023
Kringle
Neville Johnson Dec 2023
The name is Kringle
But so few know
When I'm working I use my other name
Where I almost glow in the dark
Such joy I spread
But I've never let it go to my head
I work year round except the the first two weeks of the New Year
I'm exhausted from the deliveries
Amazon, have no fear
But I'll keep it up, been doing it so long
Christmas would not be Christmas without me rolling along
I need to clear something up, that false story
I never kissed any mommy; got Mrs. Santa to satisfy me
To surprise me with presents on Christmas Day
After the reindeer are settled
We have schnapps and then we play.
177 · Feb 7
Thanks
Thanks, Babe, for loving me
For your comfort when I’m down
For you wisdom
For the kindness I see
I thank you, Babe, for loving me

I know I’m complicated
Sometimes I let you down
But you always forgive me
With you I’ve found
Joy, indeed rapture
It’s the truth
You helped me believe in myself
That’s the news

Lying beside me on this trip through life and love
I admire your beauty
As I think of all there is to reminisce
We’re again making memories
With kisses and bliss

And I thank you, Babe, for loving me
Thank you my dear for saving me
Thank you, I thank you
Thank  you for all we have done
Thank you, for what is to come
176 · Apr 2021
Choo Choo
Neville Johnson Apr 2021
I can be better
I know I can
Choo, choo, choo
So I am
Trying and trying
One day at a time
I’ve got to be good
If all will be fine
We fight ourselves
Every day
We struggle
We succeed
If we’re doing our best
Bad thoughts and deeds
Don’t get in the way
No, go away!
I am getting better
As I choo choo all day
175 · Apr 2022
He Should Be Me
Neville Johnson Apr 2022
He should be me
He’s got your tomorrows
I’ve got our yesterdays
He’s got the good times
I’ve got memories
They don’t do me any good
This ain’t the way to be
He’s got your heart
He should be me

So I’m hurt, sad, and lonely
That’s no way to be
I look back in sorrow at who used to be me
When the sun shined on us
When life was a breeze
I had you
You still have me
He’s got you
He should be me
175 · Jan 2023
Wordplay
Neville Johnson Jan 2023
***** Nilly and his best friend, Nick Name headed towards Malibu where they were to meet Hope Chest for tea. Uh oh, Nan O’Second insisted on going and then spoiled their plans because she wanted to bring Jack Russell. They ended up having donuts where they ran into Deb Enture, who was cooking up some deal with Sue Ffle.
Gus To was in the parking lot where he backed away from Ty Rade, who was his usual self.  Dan Druff and Stanley Cup attempted to intercede but were thwarted by Mo Mentum who halted their efforts.
Then, lo and behold, Ruth Less accompanied by Miss Ann Thrope shouted invective at everyone. This upset bystander Heidi **, who turned and left with Grant Writer. Ed U. Cated just sat in his car and put moves on Claire Voyant.
I always do this at the first of each year.
175 · Nov 2023
The Lazy Poet
Neville Johnson Nov 2023
I’m such a lazy poet
If I can’t make an easy rhyme
Is that a crime?
If my metaphors and similes are not up to par
Does anyone really care?
And what about my topics?
Suppose they are mundane
Will that get me into trouble?
It’s such a crying shame
Words are only words
Thoughts that take shape
Grist for all us poets
No poem is a mistake
175 · Dec 2022
Cowboy Love
Neville Johnson Dec 2022
Being divorced is not very much fun
Two kids, no dad, life on the run
A king-size bed with two pillows
But she’s sleeping alone

On a whim she headed East to the West
The Cowboy convention in Tucson
With her new boots and hat
And old friend Laura Lee, wearing a vest

This Hollywood screenwriter has seen them all
Jive city slickers with cell phones and new cars
It had been so long since she’d really been kissed
Her love life needed a punch, it could not make a fist

Samuel Dawson was born on and still lived on the ranch
He rode fence, chased cattle, is one studley man
With a soft streak as demonstrated by his craft
He works wonders with leather, why it was art

He too was lonely, this singular man
He’d cleaned himself up since his wife went and made other plans
For he had deserved it, so he sat hoping to sell
Wishing he’d find that artesian well

Stop the action, let me set the stage
There he sits at his craftsman’s booth
Underneath the canopy in the hot afternoon sun
Here comes Rebecca meandering along
She lingers and fingers his feathered and leathered strands
He smiles and she notes his mustache and tan
They talk, she will not turn away
Laura Lee shouts, “Let’s get on the way.”

This is where the story begins
One cowboy love that has no end
She’s still a writer on fine TV shows
Sam is the wrangler, whom everyone knows
Loves a lady who fancies parasols
On hot Summer days, who now rides a horse
Who no longer leads a half-finished life
Where western handicraft is everywhere in sight
And their love is on course

Some don’t understand, some don’t want to know
But bridges are built wherever you go
Even on land with no river in sight
When a cowboy finds love he succumbs without fight

The ranch is now located in Southern Cal
The fence he mends is picket, see for yourself
For I know them, and please call me Sam
She’ll be home in a few, I’m her lover man.
From my Cowboy Poems collection
173 · Feb 22
The Artist
Brooding, intense, with furrowed brow
Jeremy surveys his audience
Forty years on, still belting out the songs
That made him famous
With a touch of resignation he goes on
The first is up-tempo
He’s there to do a job
Conjuring memories
He gives them what they want
Throws in some new ones
To keep himself interested
There’s always an encore
Then he’s off

It’s his annual tour
Work he must
Given the royalties that diminish
Thank God he’s still got the stuff
That voice so powerful, so recognizable
The fans are stalwart
They keep him alive
He sings for their pleasure
He’s a pro who does strive
To give them a thrill
He’s still got the drive

It’s his life
His mission
His raison d’etre
An artist he is
Doing his best
173 · Jul 2018
Summer Wind
Neville Johnson Jul 2018
The summer wind breezes through the screen door
Cindy relaxes on the chaise lounge
Still my baby, she calls to me to lie next to her
So I roll into her arms
These hot summer days
Under blue open skies
A smattering of warm rain
We cannot disguise our ardor
Our joy at it all
We’re living the dream
There’s no shortfall
Not a care in the world
Just a mighty sigh
Of gratitude, no need to ask why
Pure relaxation
Some contemplation
Mostly just sharing
Without guile or guise
Then comes the kiss
Maybe some more
A snooze is in order
It’s not even four
173 · May 2019
Unconditional Love
Neville Johnson May 2019
She is there for me
All the time and everywhere
Got my back
That’s a fact
Safe and sure
Am I
One lucky dude
The road ahead
Stretches endlessly

This unconditional love
I’m so thankful for
She is my sun
And me, so fortunate,
To be her lucky one
173 · Apr 2018
Thanks Due
Neville Johnson Apr 2018
I’d like to thank the universe for bringing her to me
There’s no explanation why I should be so lucky
I’m flabbergasted, delighted, at what turned out to be
So thank you, thank you, thank you serendipity

In her blue bandana she dances in the sun
Points to a rainbow, says to “Come and join the day,”
Then she kisses me, while I just sigh at love’s mystery
This is typical of how we play

On her hand she wears a ring given to her by me
It was meant to cement our love
Never shall it leave
Two hearts entwined we are
From morning coffee ‘til we lay in bed before sleep
Recounting the day

It’s not always perfect
But very nearly so
I get such a big kick out of her
Always have, always will
She’s pretty as a daisy
Daily, a thrill
172 · Jul 2023
Partners
Neville Johnson Jul 2023
She’s my partner in life
My partner in love
My dear loving wife
Sent from above
It’s the seventeenth year
Our anniversary
Good gosh almighty
She’s sticking with me

So I tell her she’s stellar
How I’ve come to be
Enthralled by her magic
Her mystery
The arc of our lives
Her mastery
Of the loving arts
So soft is her touch
As she rules this lair

My partner, my lover
My best friend is she
We’re on the right course
The way it should be
Neville Johnson Dec 2017
May yours be the last face I see
And the first one every day
For you’re my rock, my dream who
Makes sure everything’s better than OK

It’s my meditation, my mantra, my wish
For my star, my everything and so much more than that
You’re the best, you know the rest
It’s all that you are

That look that shook me to my core
Such taste and style
The genuine kindness that you show to all
And while I’m explaining just how great you are
Let me conclude by saying you
Are loved here and afar
171 · Jul 2022
Love
Neville Johnson Jul 2022
Love is our only power
It's either flight or fight when times get tough
Grab and protect love when you find it
Cherish it, keep up
Your resilience and determination
Go for it
Better hope than resignation
Don't quit
Life is full of ups and downs
Love need not be that way
Just a constant elevation
The knowledge that it's all OK
As long as the home fire is burning
As long as the trust is there
Love is the best and only power
It's the way we share
Love is our only power
What gets us through each and every day
Challenges we all must encounter
That's life, come what may
But with love, with its power
The struggle is never alone
With hand in hand and heart pressed to soul
You'll both make it to the safety zone
171 · Jul 2024
A Cliche We Are Not
Neville Johnson Jul 2024
I’m a hard nut to crack
But she’s got my back
Sometimes she blows hot and cold
Giving me a double whammy
We go soul to soul
Heart to heart
But in no rush
For I’m no escape artist
It’s never over and done with
But mostly smooth sailing

As to us, which came first, the chicken or the egg?
Beats me
But our adventure is certainly through the roof
Third time’s a charm we always say if we struck out twice
Often on a wild goose chase
Well, now the cat is out of the bag
Let’s get to the meat and potatoes
Time to circle the wagons
We shall cross that bridge when we get to it
Then get the ball rolling
Off and running
Take the bull by the horns
Even if it’s raining cats and dogs
And we might be under the weather

If pigs could fly
We’d put the cart before the horse
Why? Because the grass is greener on the other side
We lead our horse to water, but drinking is another story
We travel as the crow flies
Even if I’m not the sharpest tool in the shed
We know that a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
That time flies when you’re having fun
It’s all music to our ears
After all, it’s not over until the fat lady sings
The elephant in the room is that sometimes
We are ill at ease
Causing me to bite my tongue
But with time on our hands
We are partners in crime
Operating smooth as silk
It’s a given that every cloud has a silver lining
It’s an open secret
Yet a vicious circle
Whether we are naughty or nice
But you cannot sugar coat
Playing with fire
Even with fast friends

In black and white
Boilerplate language
We salute our friends across the pond
Even if they are late to the game
We don’t let them strike out
But let them try Hail Mary passes
Especially on the on the campaign trail
We appear cold as ice
As we roll the dice
To get to the end scott free


I sound like a broken record
Like some busybody
Who supposedly know the ins and outs              
Then, oddly, the plot thickens
Are we persona non grata?
Sinking like a stone?
Over a barrel?
I can’t put my finger on it
So, time for a deep dive
We go through the motions
The ups and downs
Talking out of both sides of my mouth
Full of white lies
Innocent excuses
Fighting off the evil twin
In the guise of a tom boy
But the attitude of a devil’s advocate
We move with two shakes of a lamb’s tail
Lest we are down for the count
We’re all on a slippery *****
It’s just a matter of time
But we’ll get the show on the road
Even if it’s neither here nor there
Lest we walk the plank
Still it sometimes is catch and release
As we teeter on the razor’s edge, the cutting edge
All while towing the line
Indeed walking the line
Until X marks the spot
Then it’s the cat’s meow

Sometimes life is watching paint dry
Are we playing the wrong game?
As if the lights are on, but nobody’s home
But I’m sharp as a tack
Or a fish out of water
Going from the frying pan into the fire
A big fish in a small pond
Of course where there’s smoke there’s fire
Yet I feel free is a bird
A diamond in the rough
The bees’ knees
Even if I can’t see the forest for the trees
I am swimming upstream
Sometimes that’s how the cookie crumbles
Other times, it’s just what the doctor ordered
Causing me to fall on my sword

Financially, we are always robbing Peter to pay Paul
Did I lose my marbles? I ask myself
But we seem to be happy as pigs in a blanket
Notwithstanding too much monkey business’
I believe I’m a sly fox
Not running out of steam
Rather it’s pedal to the metal
I ain’t pushing up daisies
But staying stone-cold sober
But don’t hold your breath
I won't get out of Dodge
Or eat some crow
Not as long as I think outside the box
And stay in my own lane
Others may be green with envy
But that’s neither here nor there
Not enough to get bent out of shape
Or be dead in the water
Me and the Missus are partners in crime  
Who are always saved by the bell
These times are through the roof
Still you mustn’t judge a book by the cover
Yes, hindsight is 20/20
But that’s a cop-out
If you have a dog in the fight
So the goal it to hit the spot
Be on the mark
Take it one day at a time
If you only know that the truth hurts
Then you’ll be be jumping for joy
We’ll meet you halfway

My way or the highway is not for me
Nor grasping at straws
Or firing blanks
Or blowing smoke
Life is not a walk in the park
There’s some heavy lifting
Requiring tooth and nail work
Then you’ll hit that home run
And no, the end does not justify the means


Have you observed that where there’s smoke there’s fire?
When that happens, hit the road
You don’t want to be a defendant in a kangaroo court
With all that jazz
It’ll rain on your parade
Not my or your cup of tea
Don’t get stuck between a rock and a hard place
Have the wind in your sails
Stay away from too much monkey business
Pure and simple
Or you’ll wind up with a raw deal

Apple didn’t fall far from the tree as to me and my Pa
I can face the music
Even if it’s out of the blue
No more beating myself up
I’m going straight as the crow flies
Gonna play it by ear
Living on the edge
Talk everyone off the ledge
Never be thrown for a loop
171 · May 2019
The Story of Love
Neville Johnson May 2019
This is the story of a love
Everyone has one, or should
Here is mine
Fits and starts I suffered
Nothing seemed to take
I so wanted to have a lover
A life together we would make
I had some dalliances
Never permanent but nice
Then would come the day to commit
I could not, I would fly
Into the future
Sometime regretting my past
Love is not for fooling around
So I went on leave
Didn’t date anyone for a good while
Morose I was
Then it changed
I met her at a meet and greet
Soon I was swept and smitten
And she  pursued me!
We grew closer
So much, that we are now married
Oh, I waited so long
I almost gave up
Now I can tell the tale
The story of love
171 · Sep 2024
I Look Back in Anger
Neville Johnson Sep 2024
I looked back in anger
I look back in sorrow
I looked back
I can’t stop myself
I’m always looking back
I miss the good times
I hate the bad times
They only bring me
What have I learned?
Where is the tomboy I loved is a child?
Where is my high school romance?
Whatever happened to Betsy?

That was at university
I didn’t know what I was doing then
Not sure I still do
But Betsy, Betsy was cool
Sometimes I check her out on the Internet
But I can’t call her
I’d just be a fool
170 · Apr 2023
Banking On It
Neville Johnson Apr 2023
I’m in love with the teller, but how do I tell her?
I try to deposit my interest
Obtain some currency
But I always withdraw
I come up short
This deficiency will not last
On account of my ardor
Wait and see
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