What Makes a Home

My normal route diverted,
I walked north instead of south
And passed a man who looked like he
Existed hand to mouth.

He’d made a small encampment
Underneath a walking bridge,
Though of course he lacked a bathroom
Or a closet or a fridge.

But I had to give him credit
For I couldn’t help but look
As he knelt before a bookshelf
Picking out the perfect book.

There were maybe twenty volumes,
Neatly standing side by side,
Clearly adding to the ambiance
Of where he does reside.

We can make our living quarters
Cozy, if we are in luck,
But to do so when you’re homeless
Takes a little bit of pluck.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2020

Poem

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Krutsinger Avatar
July 25, 2020 at 12:48 AM
Ah, so beautifully done!
Leffanta Avatar
July 24, 2020 at 12:41 PM
I'll FAV this one! Aloha! Rico
Watt Avatar
July 23, 2020 at 11:35 PM
Good to be back online and reading your daily vignettes, and this one is though-provoking and tugs at the heart. What stories there are in the lives of those with no walls to call their own.
Logan Avatar
July 22, 2020 at 12:41 PM
Your wonderful lines and observance make me wonder about his past misfortune that's left him homeless. Obviously, his love of books is telltale. It's one of those "curious minds want to know" moments. Good story telling in rhyme, Ilene.
Pigeon Tart Avatar
July 22, 2020 at 12:20 PM
I can picture it. ~x
Allison Avatar
July 22, 2020 at 12:19 PM
oh wow Ilene how sad is this in would be fascinating to know what his life story is and how he ended up on the streets yet still able to maintain a 'homely' atmosphere in such an unusual environment ... and i wonder what these books are. what a fascinating glimpse into his life. SO glad soup up and running again:-) hugs Jan xx
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