Damp Paperbacks

old novel with the author you 
cant quite remember.

  we can worry about it later
 just like in the old days.


  now tealeaf stimuli is twice as light in the city.

  the somewhat unfriendly cat in the
 bookstore on the corner seems disinterested.


  watching a woman on the sidewalk
 holding a wet paper grocery bag,
 her arms wrapped around the bottom.

 the bag is falling apart and the clouds are rolling
 backwards.

 it will be dark soon. 

  
  we are falling apart and talking about heading
  south into the high desert. 



we pass the time by reading paperbacks that have
 been soaked in mineral oil for days and 
 hardened under the sun.

Some call it scripture.

we feel holy and then a little less holy.

  your heavy sweater purchased at
 a thrift store, the faint smell of mothballs
   still lingering on the thick threads.

 the cat has taken an interest in 
your side pocket pulling with its claws and mouth.

 soon the rain will cough up the paperbacks as well, 
 everything will change.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2012

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Kiessling Avatar
January 23, 2013 at 1:00 AM
You conjure the atmosphere so easily. I can see myself there.
Andresen Avatar
April 21, 2012 at 2:44 PM
Like it Nathan....well done....just like in the old days. - Have a lovely weekend. - oxox Anne-Lise
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace