Shopping For Shoes At Century 21

A store in New York City,
Selling “bargains” at top price,
Lures the locals and the tourists
Seeking upscale merchandise.

Yet their famous shoe department,
Always crowded and self-serve,
Is so customer-unfriendly,
It hits every single nerve.

From the samples set on shelving
Much too high for short folks’ eyes,
You choose shoes that are appealing
Then you try to find your size.

All the pairs reside in boxes,
Shelved below the model shoe;
If your size and style are waiting,
You’re among the lucky few.

You remove your shoes while standing
(Seats are scattered, never free),
Slip the new ones on your feet
And start to waddle, for, you see,

Every pair is linked together
With a sturdy plastic band;
And when both feet are ensconced,
It’s hard enough to even stand.

Look around to find a mirror
(Yes, they’re also short of glass);
Shuffle slowly, like a geisha,
Or you’ll fall flat on your ass.

Then repeat with all your choices
‘Til you finally decide;
Wait in line and start to wonder
If this treatment’s justified.

But of course, you’ll be returning
To repeat the same ordeal,
For deep down, you’re just delighted
That you really got a steal!
Copyright © | Year Posted 2013

Poem

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Johnson Avatar
June 17, 2013 at 12:26 PM
So glad you found a pair or two to fit all the requirements. But while your standing there in line remember your refinements.
Bickerstaffe Avatar
June 16, 2013 at 8:57 AM
I suppose that self-serve stores do have their advantages, but I always wish for a knowledgeable sales associate, my own chair, and my own mirror! Excellent, as always!! Best wishes, Keith
Gildersleeve Avatar
June 14, 2013 at 7:14 PM
Ilene another one of your clever rhymes. You are truly talented my friend. Thank you for putting a smile on my face. Warm Smiles, Connie
Manassian Avatar
June 14, 2013 at 6:22 AM
Wish I could enjoy a steal right now! :) Yea...but I'd probably not go through all the hassle...and I'd probably fall flat on my ass. Good thing I'm nicely padded! ;) GOOD ONE Ilene! Love ya! :)
Anish Avatar
June 13, 2013 at 6:16 PM
Enjoyable work here! One of our hometown's great assets is it' wide range of places to shop. I actually laughed out loud at this one and thanks for your kind words. Peace & Love Matthew Anish
Ryerson Avatar
June 13, 2013 at 5:44 PM
Oh my, ilene...what a riot THIS baby is!...Verses 5-7 absolutely floored me!...Thanks for the laugh, I needed it! - Tim
Ellison Avatar
June 13, 2013 at 3:02 PM
Hope you still love me! LOL I've been neglecting my friends here on the Soup... moving next Tuesday and hopefully back on track after that! Big hugs, Jack xoxox
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