A Few Spare Words

Clever is as clever does,

And I got clever young.

I've got a mind full of shovels

But a sandpaper tongue.

I sound smooth if its written

And maybe smoother if its sung,

But watch out if I speak plainly

Because that's how it gets brung.

I don't rely on obscenities

Just to fill the stagnant air,

Yet if I hurl one in your direction

It should curl your hair.

Like the rev of an engine

Growling sharp to life

The venom of my acid tongue

Will cut you like a knife.

I don't say this to intimidate

Or to cause you any harm.

It's just a statement of fair warning

In case I lose my charm.

If you hear my canine bark

My bite is close at heel,

So temper your incitement

Before this shit gets real.