A Quiet Waltz

CHALLENGED OR CHALLENGED?: AN UNRESOLVED DANCE LINGERS ON
By: Agnes Dalton - 28 minutes ago

API RELEASE: CHATTANOOGA, TN -

A challenged waiter and a forgotten child 
are alone in an empty diner -
when suddenly, a spotted lark 
glides through an open window 
and carries the child's voice away.

The challenged waiter rushes the baby
into the burnt kitchen and gently bathes him
in a vat of silky buttermilk.

There is no need for a candle now.
The infant silently sleeps.
He's dreaming of a holy nest -

sacrament to a testament?

A resurrection of majestic trees unfold as 

apnea prevails – when the waiter
finally awakes - he unlocks 
the rusted magnesium gates - 
stained with the blood of a combed innocence.

Finding himself abandoned again, 
the babbling steward 
slithers through the dusty shadows 
of hammered pots and pans - like smoke rings, 
slicing celestial godsong sung by dappled larks.
 
A forgotten waiter. A lifeless infant -
an empty diner...and all the senseless,
napkin-tucked angels, who witnessed 
this timeless debacle, are now 

dancing and crying - a quiet waltz...

for one.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2008

Poem

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D Avatar
February 19, 2009 at 6:44 PM
The image listing has a compelling voice and brings the effort strength.
Bellefleur Avatar
December 6, 2008 at 9:10 AM
wonderfully written - Thank you for your comment on my poem, John..
George   Avatar
November 7, 2008 at 5:01 AM
Awsome, my friend. Thank you for sharing and congratulations on your first place win. Love, Lainie
Richards Avatar
October 30, 2008 at 1:04 PM
So beautifully written John! Wonderful heartfelt write, and congratulations on placing in Kristin's Contest!! ~ Carrie
Reynolds Avatar
October 29, 2008 at 6:14 PM
Sir John. :) what can I say, this poem is brilliant (but I believe, you already know that!) amazing in its depth, originality - I mean the news headline - come on! to the sadness and visuals...you sir, are a poet who should be read. You must put out a book. Now. did you do it yet? lol Anyway, loved this!!!!!!! love Kristin
Winter Avatar
October 29, 2008 at 2:54 PM
I knew this was a winner! Who didn't - duh! : ) ~lol~ Congratulations John on your shared First Place win in Kristin's contest! Love, Shar xoxo
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