Usually I wait until these land somewhere, to “amplify”, but there’s something to be said for immediacy, so hope you enjoy this brand new piece. Thanks for the read
The Dresser
St. Dominque on a summer day,
heading east towards the rising sun
blue and orange, a yellow door,
brownstones line the dime,
iron stretching to the sky,
narrow as a new wave tie
A battered dresser rests, at the base,
wide and deep as the street goes on,
owners pausing on the walk,
He leaves. She heaves her shoulders.
How the hell will they be lifted high
three flights up, around spiral steps?
Do you need any help, I ask, or
Is your boyfriend coming back?
He’s not my boyfriend. Yes.
He’s coming back. It’s just so hot.
She fans the air with her summer dress
This is a nice neighborhood. I know.
People used to have less stuff,
furnished flats and cardboard cases
I think of her and her not-boyfriend
as I slip away – remembering the days,
opening doors and trying hard, with
all the time in the world
Hope, the motivator
Doug Hoekstra 