The Corner Store

The corner store across the street
Was known for all its cuts of meat
But also it sold milk and bread
And other things you’d need instead.

On Friday mornings folks would flock
To sit on chairs among the stock
To hear the music on guitar
Of Uncle Junior (TV star).

The owner’s lived at my address
For more than forty years, I’d guess.
As neighbors we would nod and chat
Of Yankee games and this and that.

Today, in shock, while walking by,
An empty storefront met my eye.
I’d heard the rent went through the roof
And there before me was the proof.

Though times must change, it makes me sad
When touchstones that we’ve always had
Just disappear and are no more;
Farewell, my friendly corner store!
Copyright © | Year Posted 2018

Poem

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Callus Avatar
January 22, 2018 at 6:56 AM
A lovely poem with a sad ending, Ilene. I live in a village and fortunately, up till now, these small shops are managing to survive. Regards // paul
Johnson Avatar
January 19, 2018 at 6:11 PM
Exquisite write ilene. I almost get mad that quality of life diminishes at the cost of living. :( :)
Rigoler Avatar
January 17, 2018 at 6:49 PM
Supermarkets and stores like Walmart have put the corner out of business. They still thrive in Maine, however, and when I'm there I make use of them. This poem hit home, Ilene, thanks for posting it, and more thanks for writing it. / M
Marcum Wong Avatar
January 16, 2018 at 11:57 PM
It is so sad that many of the Mom-and-Pop stores have had to close because of the high costs. I could feel that nostalgic feeling of loss in your poem Ilene. Lovely! ; )
Pigeon Tart Avatar
January 16, 2018 at 9:32 PM
Superb ink Ilene. Faving this one for safe keeping x
Smith Avatar
January 16, 2018 at 5:55 PM
It is sad when such a great establishment gets priced out of business.
Murray Avatar
January 16, 2018 at 5:05 PM
My village street is a dead zone now so many have passed on, including my parents and aunt next door. That sadness is well expressed in this lovely poem Ilene.
Allison Avatar
January 16, 2018 at 4:52 PM
aww what a terrible shock it must be - the rents go through the roof and profits are so slim something has to give - such a crying shame for him and all the residents:-( hugs jan xx
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