Chicago, Meat Packing District

...Dedicated to the memory of my great Uncle Fred,
Spanish American Veteran & worked a "night job" during
the depression, while supporting wonderfully my Mom's
family on the south side of Chicago, when she was young,
Grandpa had lost everything, but Uncle Fred saved our family



I have never been to another planet, 
Tho when I walk the early morning streets
Of the meat packing district, my feet have
Left this earth. Floating unease courses 
Through my body... lights, sights, sounds
And smells never before registered in my
Physical and emotional inventory confront
Me. My ancestors travelled these same paths
Many years ago, usually with shoulder holsters
And homemade body armor. My senses
Understand this heritage, I traverse
Cautiously as if walking downhill on a
Pilgrimage. Tonight I shall visit Mars, in the
Shadow of Venus, cradled in the arms of the
Crescent Moon.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2015

Poem

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Laurie Avatar
October 4, 2018 at 10:55 PM
G'day James … maybe I'm being silly or a sceptic here, but I get this feeling that being alone at a meat works during the great depression could make you a target to be canned - another fine lyric - thank you Mate - Lindsay
Goff Avatar
October 4, 2018 at 11:00 PM
Lindsay...in Chi-town, good cuts of beef only were available to mob-run juice joints during the depression...hence...heavies (gun totin') rode deliveries for security...my Uncle mixed with this crowd...
Thirtyseven Avatar
August 3, 2016 at 8:25 AM
Wonderful poem. I like how you take us walking with you.
Makama Avatar
March 2, 2016 at 8:24 AM
What a lovely page with a profound group of words. I am loving every aspect of this piece. Thumbs up friend and a definite 7
Turner Avatar
February 28, 2016 at 10:22 PM
Jim before I became ill, I spent 30 years of my life as a meat hauler driving an 18 wheeler. I can't tell you how many times I've been to the meat district in Chicago. It is still a very scary place at night. This is a great write which I can relate to. Peace my friend:)
Lamoureux Avatar
January 30, 2016 at 7:34 AM
I enjoyed rereading this one James.
Babcock Avatar
January 24, 2016 at 8:15 PM
Nicely written. I love the last line. Nice to travel back to the past with memories but now we sail onto the future. love phyl
Onclaud Avatar
December 27, 2015 at 3:46 PM
hi jimbo... nothing like digging into the old charm of one's ancestry... so, so fine!..have a happy year!..huggs
Maverick Avatar
December 26, 2015 at 10:49 AM
I am interested in the symbols you bring into this family reminisce Jimbo, very intriguing indeed.'
A   Avatar
December 25, 2015 at 10:34 PM
Hi James, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year May all your days shine and dreams come true. :) Every day should be a day with family and friends. I appreciate everyone. Sorry to all those I have taken for granted. SHAME ON ME. I promise, 2016 will be a new me. Merry Christmas!!! May the true meaning of the holiday season fill your heart and home. Always & Forever ~LINDA~
Bickerstaffe Avatar
November 28, 2015 at 7:17 AM
Very interesting. I loved the vivid pictures and powerful language. Well done James! Best wishes, Keith 7
Lamoureux Avatar
November 27, 2015 at 2:14 PM
Very cool piece and thanks for the historical context.
Smith Avatar
November 25, 2015 at 3:39 AM
I remember going to the ampetheter years later to a rodeo and the smells were still there...Excellent poem Jimbo
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