Sometimes instruments go out of key…

When the key drifts in and out
I get confused
I don’t know whether I should be worried
or annoyed
or impressed by the persistence
of someone who keeps on going
long after the guitar has gone out of tune

After all, what is that based on—
scales set in stone?
Guess what?
Weight fluctuates
Stone breaks into rocks
The drummer solos alone
(where else can he go?)

The key keeps drifting
it no longer fits the lock
or opens the door

Notes on the paper
Notes in the air
just hang there—
but nobody knows where
because the key
has drifted so long
it’s gone

leaving a note on the door—
which remains firmly locked

(18 November 2015—posted November 19)