Outwrite SofaBig, white leather sofaThat turns a corner. It hosts three men: On the left leg, A man crunching classifieds. On the right leg, A man with a crossword puzzle, "Spoonerisms". I'm close enough to see the topic. No wonder he's doing it in ink. At the bend, A man leaning back Arms outstretched Wide but not intruding On the other two men's space. Heavy hard-cover book Closed on his right thigh. He wears a gentle, attentive, half-smile As he too takes in the scene. The couch's contents change. Mr. Crossword and Mr. Classifieds are gone. The left leg now contains A young blond man Who seems somewhat self-conscious. I smile at him But he looks right through me. On his cell phone, He calls first one friend Then another. He departs the couch For the porch and a smoke. The man at the bend Briefly explores First his heavy hard-cover book, Then the newspaper. He returns to his arms outstretched Attentive posture. Next: Observer Observed Prev: Outwrite Cutie |
| 26 October 2002 | |
| by Bill Cattey |