Not So Ultralite

Not so Ultralite

One can cut a fraction of an ounce from their pack weight
          by sawing the handle off their toothbrush
                        and another by
          cutting the tongues out of their running shoes.
Also, do matchsticks really need to be so long?
          And how much of one’s clothing is optional?
With some wit you can whittle away pounds from your pack,
          but remember those twelve essential ounces.

You pull them from the pack before pitching your tarp,
          to cool them in a snowmelt stream.
                  Then... PHIPP!  tsssss...
                   you pry the pop top off a
                             sudsy, hoppy,
                             crisp and frothy,
                             deliciously unlite beer.

And the can when you are through?
                  Perhaps a makeshift pot to boil potable water?
                  A source of shiny aluminum for a survival fishing lure?
                  A reflective surface for signaling the rescue copter?
That can may save your life.
And may they never, ever invent
                            freeze dried,
                            ultralite,
                            dehydrated,
                   backpacker beer.