Two Trains

The railroad ride was smooth as silk Though it was ten degrees. The train was just a minute late – No time to feel the freeze. We passed through towns of snow-topped homes While sitting warm and snug, The ticket taker’s attitude As friendly as a hug. But at Grand Central, we got off And had to make a switch To ride the city subway; Let’s enumerate each glitch: The crowded platform packed with people Cursing the delays; The trash-strewn tracks accruing more On which the rats will graze. Announcements stating that all trains Are locals, not express; Yet finally, we cram on board As all those bodies press. We go one stop and then the doors On certain cars won’t close. We’re ordered off and stumble out – Well, that’s the way it goes. We grab a cab and make it home And think of those two trains – Whatever calm the rail provides, The subway quickly drains.