It’s a Pinball Life
Pinball is proof that gravity works.
The inexorable inevitability of inertia
in the form of a child’s game.
That small metal ball rolling down the slightly sloped table
past holes, targets, lights, ramps, and bumpers;
an obstacle course that only delays the outcome
but never stops it completely.
Bells and whistles abound to distract the player
and let them know they have scored a bonus, or extra ball.
Concentration on the ball is paramount over all other concerns
if one is to get the most credits out of their quarters.
With flippers the only thing standing between a high score and oblivion
the pressure is on to perform at the highest level
especially if you’re in an arcade and there is an audience.
Anyone can play, few can master the game
like Tommy the pinball wizard it takes dedication and something more–
that special talent for seeing the whole picture while knowing
where the ball is at all times.
Multi-ball bonus time is a juggler’s paradise, silver orbs caroming
off one another as the score increases exponentially.
Keeping as many in play as possible drives the total but exhausts the player
Until the last ball drops; game over.
– Kevin Oliver
Kevin Oliver Poetry 