Three alleyways down

by Colm   Sep 27, 2021


The rhythm beat of sax floated
over from the canopied jazz club
three alleyways down. Cobblestones
underfoot wobbled, crooked with age
as backbone-straight monastery walls
rose up, Adriatic and weathered-red.

You stood out like a fox among hens -

Standing across the square, vaping,
in that oversized flannel shirt, mustard/orange
under a lantern streetlight.

I looked at your stoic posture and I looked
at your half-hat-hidden face and I wanted
to turn away but I didn't want to turn away
from you --

I breathe -
I breathe -
I breathe -

And I wonder which one of us,
blocked out the sound of a jazz bar
three alleyways down.

    report violation
6


Did You Like This Poem?

Latest Comments

  • 3 years ago

    by Poet on the Piano

    I am ecstatic to see that you posted this, it's so descriptive without it feeling cluttered with images. The square and alleyways feel alive, have character and texture, and the mystery of seeing this person makes me wonder if it is a stranger or not. It actually reminded me of a scene in the last few minutes of "Your Name Engraved Herein", where two school friends with a lot of history see each other many years later. They've changed a great deal, but still recognize each other, and reminisce on the days when they were together in the square, singing and goofing off.

    The separate lines of "I breathe -" held such emphasis, as well as the question of what it means going forward. Were one of you going to meet at the club, or were drawn to it, and now are intrigued by each other? Does the club hold too many memories? Or are you two strangers, wondering what each one, seemingly out of place, is doing there, almost entranced by each other.

    Wonderful piece, Colm!

More Poems By Colm

People Who Liked This Also Liked