The Laundromat

In another lifetime, I was there
As sudsy clothes, a’jumble,
Went round and round until removed
In damp and twisted tumble.

Into the dryers they would go
While I just sat there, reading,
To help the time go by so boredom
Skulked away, receding.

When dry, the folded sheets and such
Into my cart were nestled
And schlepped to my apartment,
Up five flights I daily wrestled.

We moved within a year to where
Our building’s basement hosted
A bevy of machines to which
An elevator coasted.

Yet when I pass the laundromat
There’s surely no debating
That I don’t miss those days of carts
And inconvenient waiting.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2019

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

Rigoler Avatar
September 25, 2019 at 12:42 PM
My apartment complex has washing and drying machines on every floor, and dirt cheap compared to public ones. Big help and big savings. / M
Allison Avatar
September 23, 2019 at 4:26 PM
who would have thought washing day could be so exciting Ilene, you turn an ordinary event into an extraordinary poem and that is why I love your style so much!:-) hugs Jan xx
Leffanta Avatar
September 17, 2019 at 5:52 PM
Loved the penultimate verse! Pure genius! Aloha! Rico
Wolf Avatar
September 17, 2019 at 5:41 PM
O, 'a bevy of machines to which the elevator coasted.' One would think that you have moved to a castle! And compared to the laundry scenario before, I guess you have! :) gw
Devonshire Avatar
September 17, 2019 at 4:46 PM
Oh, I remember lugging huge pillow cases filled with dirty clothes to the laundromat. Now I don't think I could live without my washer/dryer. Glad to hear you now take an elevator to your building's washing area and don't have to go outside. Enjoyed the nostalgia... Best wishes, Carolyn
Green Avatar
September 17, 2019 at 1:46 PM
I can't say that I have ever been to a laundromat and now after reading your poem can honestly say I am glad I haven't. Nice one Ilene
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