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.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2018

Poem

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Amadore Avatar
January 7, 2018 at 4:14 PM
Oh, the perils of life in NYC! I have not visited there in many, many years; and, although I realize there are, indeed (as your poem so clearly attests), many problems in such a people-packed place, NYC is still one of the "shining beacons on the hill" of current Western Civilization and world culture..,,,,,may it continue to thrive, in the face of all obstacles!
Rigoler Avatar
January 7, 2018 at 3:43 PM
Happy I don't live in New York city. I admire you for putting up with modern transportation. When I'm in Paris I make sure I have a friend who knows the Metro system! / M
Teagan Avatar
January 6, 2018 at 10:16 PM
sounds like an unpleasant experience to me. But you wrote a cute poem about it, so that makes up for it! ;) Enjoyed it.
Marcum Wong Avatar
January 6, 2018 at 7:24 PM
Boy can I relate to this one Ilene. I really hate being on crowded subways. Some trains in Europe are that way too at the busiest hours. You stand all the way to your destination. I had my CD player stolen on such a train. I enjoyed your perfectly rhymed poem Ilene. You are a master poet! ; )
Smith Avatar
January 6, 2018 at 7:03 PM
Quite the adventure...you never know what to expect in inclement weather
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