A Place Just Right

The Greyhound reels over creaking axles.
Northern Kentucky puts on weight in summer,
a green mélange thickens,
yet inside our trundling tube, 
joints rattle,
gears burn through paunch and muscle.

We lurch over a crest down into a holler
An old Shaker Hymn booms across the radio:
When we find ourselves in a place just right
'Twill be in the valley of love and light.

I have often longed to be 'in a place just right,'
to be at ease in these bucking bones,
even when breathing this smother 
of body odor and diesel.

Then we dip down into a valley.
At a wooden store advertising cold beers
we stop. 
"Is this the right place?" I ask.
"It’s as close as we get", says the driver.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2019

Poem

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Ashley Avatar
April 8, 2020 at 9:10 PM
This is an amazing poem, Eric. Full of intrigue and textured imagery handled with finesse. Your artistry is riveting and enthralled my imagination completely. Loved the last line for an impactful finish. Impressive poetry, mi amigo! Warmest wishes always.. ~Susan
Ashley Avatar
April 8, 2020 at 11:15 PM
Wait.. who’s John? :)
Ashford Avatar
April 8, 2020 at 10:19 PM
Thank you Susan, and thank you for delving deep into my archived stuff! Love your comments. Have great evening compadre. John.
Ashford Avatar
July 12, 2019 at 3:10 PM
Thanks for reading my poetry today Richard. Yes, this one works I think. It has been much edited, but hopefully it's there now. Appreciate your feedback.
Lamoureux Avatar
July 12, 2019 at 8:52 AM
I think this is my favourite so far. Exceptional poetry.
De Beaulieu Avatar
June 24, 2019 at 1:54 PM
Hello Eric Ashford, your poem made me feel like i was on a journey. Thank you. Have a nice day my friend. So nice to meet you.
Ashford Avatar
June 25, 2019 at 2:19 AM
Nice to meet you Darlene, and thanks!
Romios Avatar
June 24, 2019 at 10:39 AM
This is a unique and unusual write. I enjoyed it Panagiota
Ashford Avatar
June 25, 2019 at 2:18 AM
Thank you Panagiota for your kind comment.
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