Browsing the Antiques

In a store that sells antiques,
The past is much alive,
Including parts that we’d prefer
Did somehow not survive.

Some creepy dolls and ugly clothes
And jewelry I’d not wear
Forlornly grace the shelves without
Their one-time savoir faire.

But other items bring a smile
Or memory to bear – 
A Popeye pin, some Beatles cards 
And much Fiestaware.

Three typewriters with all their keys
Sit Royally encased
And lots of kitchen tools I wish
I never had replaced.

I troll the aisles quite aimlessly
For if you want the truth,
The only things I hope to find
Are traces of my youth.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2018

Poem

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De Beaulieu Avatar
April 26, 2018 at 6:19 PM
Hello Ilene, we will not find traces of our youth in an antique shop. It won't be there. Have a nice evening my friend.
Krutsinger Avatar
April 8, 2018 at 9:01 PM
Ilene, I did not have time to pass go or collect $200 dollars. In the Monopoly Game of the Rhyme, this is my favorite all-time Rhyme Poem. Went straight to favs when I got to creepy dolls.
Bauer Avatar
April 9, 2018 at 11:22 AM
Ha! Thank you for that lovely comment, Caren! So many of those dolls really creep me out...
Murray Avatar
April 6, 2018 at 10:23 AM
Sometimes things jump out at you from an otherwise dull collection Ilene. I purchased an antique pendant and gold ring in this way and never regretted it. Browsing is always fun.
Johnson Avatar
April 5, 2018 at 11:10 PM
If your hearing ringing in your ears, it's you ringing the bell. Such a joy to read your wonderful talent.
De Beaulieu Avatar
April 5, 2018 at 8:39 PM
Hello Ilene,I could spend hours in an antique shop. Wishing i could buy everything I like to have. Have a nice evening my friend.
Rigoler Avatar
April 5, 2018 at 7:13 PM
I'm in your club, Ilene. When I see an antique shop or barn (in Maine) I have to stop and have a look. My specialty is old paintings, signed or not. I they are well done and the price is right, you'll find it in my collection. Love the last two lines in the last stanza.Antiques let us know how things once were. Wonderful poem. Thank you for looking up Christina's portrait. / M
Amadore Avatar
April 5, 2018 at 7:03 PM
An exceptional one that rings true to life and pleasing to the ear and psyche, Ilene. Thank you for the treat.
Adams Avatar
April 5, 2018 at 5:28 PM
Another amazing write. As always perfectly rhymed and an interesting story! This is another FAV for me. I got to counting and this is number 22! I'm truly a fan. Keep up the good work!!!...pat
Allison Avatar
April 5, 2018 at 1:44 PM
Oh Ilene i adore browsing second hand and antique shops and the part about the kitchen tools is SO true:-) I just adore your clever rhymes my friend:-) hugs jan xx
Donnelly Avatar
April 5, 2018 at 11:53 AM
Love this poem, Ilene. My sentiments exactly. :) ~ Artsie
Rodrigues Avatar
April 4, 2018 at 8:48 PM
That last verse so true! Funny how people buy ugly things!
B. Avatar
April 4, 2018 at 8:03 PM
Terrific creativity Ilene!! Great imagery.. Makes you think differently about browsing antiques... Bravo!!
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