For Charles Bronson

Potential talents were up for grabs
in my formative years;
creativity was an alter-dimension.
To pallet, canvas, pen and pad
I could not have paid less attention.

I was all "Barbie," and Hide and Seek,
watching my seasons come and go.
My most favorite thing about weekends
was the Popcorn at the picture-show.

Then, one day when I was ten
the Muse played her far-distant hand--
gone to the movies like usual--
suddenly I AM IN CHATO'S LAND!
I have never felt anything like it;
captivated from beginning to end;
a Master's Direction enlights it. . .
He IS this Apache Indian.

The reel done, sensitivities stirred,
for I had seen him in few other parts;
planted seeds in rich soil tilled.
HIS ACTING had stolen my heart!
Far more than just a puppy-crush,
it is his studied grace I loved.
He awoke me to art in the artist
as natural as flight in the dove.

So, regardless the title,
have I studied him
to gleen how he did what he's done;
numberless times have I watched him
in "The Mechanic", "Chato" and "Red Sun"

If he could know how he inspired me--
a fledgling sculptor of words,
he would know doubtless
there are countless more like me--
thus, the highest artist's calling
has he served.