A painting by Carl Timner


Look, in the attic, the unentered room,
A naked boy leans on the outspread knees
Of his tall brother lolling in costume,
Tights, vest, and cap, of one who on trapeze
Finds comfort farthest from complacencies.

Through circling half-light from their down-shed musing 
Hurries the miser in his double hat;
The dry guitar he holds is still, abusing
All others who play music of their choosing.