The Hardware Man

I walked into the hardware store,
A place I’d never been before,
And knew that I would surely find
Exactly what I’d had in mind.

The narrow aisles were like a maze
Which led to crowded wall displays.
The owner, deep in heavy schmoozing,*
Left me to my own perusing.

Finally, I earned a glance
And asked him if he had, perchance,
A drainage trap or some such thing
To catch a slipped-off wedding ring.

He pointed to a set of shelves
(I guess we had to help ourselves)
And then went back into his chat,
Not budging from the place he sat.

The whole time I was on my search
He prattled from his counter perch,
Not caring if I would prevail
Or even if he’d make a sale.

I found my prize, he named a price
And handed me my merchandise.
His goodbye smile said, “Good for you!
You found it, like I knew you’d do!”
 
*conversing
Copyright © | Year Posted 2015

Poem

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Johnson Avatar
March 8, 2015 at 2:09 PM
Well if he wasn't the owner he should get with the program. And if he is the owner, maybe he's looking to sell the business. He certainly didn't care about it on your visit.
Allison Avatar
March 7, 2015 at 5:01 PM
That would drive me mad Eileen - even worse are shop assistants who carry on a conversation when you are waiting to be served:-) Great humour as ever and I remember you had a happy ending with the tale of your ring :-) hugs Jan xx 7 xx
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