~SUSAN RICH~

YOU MIGHT CONSIDER

---

how my long life of losing men
could create a new international sport.

Men lost in the desert, men missing
in action from doorways and all-night diners;

men making the most of fire
escapes, service stairs, the emergency aisle

of airplanes like United. Men
para-sailing after spaceship encounters.

I am accomplished in the world
of the see-you-later wave

as his pick-up truck disappears
traveling to the next espresso stand.

Something in the curve of my collar,
the blue of my blouse sets them running.

They know they are in the hands of a master.
But when the coffee’s on, the pumpernickel

toasted just right, I have to let them know;
I’m actually ready for them to go.

 

© by Susan Rich