buzzards and flamingos -

lights swirl ... rhythms pound ... cold Duplais Verte emulsifies in my square glass tongue tingling, I swallow it in sips woody, bitter licorice plucks my senses the soft, dreamy warmth suffuses my blood, relaxing and the flamingos start to dance up-and-down, sweeping and bouncing timed with colored lasers and a mirror ball ... real?? then the buzzards join in, hopping spinning and jostling with the lovely pink birds glowing, dark, angular shapes I'm perplexed ... but hypnotized, I go with it my mind picturing a fantasy land of odd animals a steel drum paradise of music, green liqueur, and dancers sublime women with latte' skin and palm skirts twirling, shaking, kicking their legs tossing hips and limbs in sensual syncopation one special lady quite near to my table whose face I recognize, and movements captivate page-boy haircut and gold-flecked brown eyes peasant blouse, off-the-shoulders pleated, plaid mini and ruby-red Blahnik pumps that bring attention to the watercolor tattoos on her calves her left leg, chocolate turkey vultures and on the right, three gorgeous pink flamingos I finish my absinthe, smiling pick up another square glass of the Green Fairy and begin to sip ... cold, cloudy … smooth. ~ 4th Place ~ in the "Buzzards and Flamingos" Poetry Contest, Anthony Slausin, Judge & Sponsor.