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At The Library
They sat at the library,
bent over separate
newspapers.
She followed her finger
along each line.
He turned the pages
offhandedly,
not following anything at all.
They were probably in their eighties,
feeble,
on top of current events and
what makes this world go 'round.
Perhaps reading about local concerns -
road construction causing delays,
weekend crime and
hurricanes.
Eventually she asked, "Are you ready to go?"
To which he responded with the same,
"Are you ready to go?"
He stood and walked the
newspapers to the shelf.
She rose slowly from her chair,
her height unfolding, revealing how very tall
she must have been years ago.
They walked by, and I noticed their gait,
sharp-witted,
determined, aged
like a history lesson.
Style / type:
Free verse
Review Request (Intensity):
I want the raw truth, feel free to knock me on my back
Editing stage:
Content level:
Not Explicit Content
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Region & Country
United States
Favorite Poets
I tend to read Ted Kooser, Jim Harrison, Billy Collins, Paul Simon, Robert Frost. I like minimalist poetry, and poems reflecting on nature and Mother Earth.
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Comments
Leslie
Wed, 2024-10-16 01:32
At The Library
We take our lives too much for granted. I'm just trying to enjoy the good and bad like hurricanes and such, despite all of the ups and downs that come with age. The elderly are a history lesson. Great poem L. I like the idea of that.
Our dreams lost! Lost on an ocean of turmoil! Soon a solution will arrive! Until then I will write!
Lavender
Wed, 2024-10-16 19:25
Hello, Leslie,
They were such interesting, distinguished characters. I love observing people and their mannerisms, especially those with such dignity.
Thank you for reading!
L
author commentCandlewitch
Wed, 2024-10-16 09:18
Dearest Lavender,
I wonder if they were reading the same papers, as you can read papers from several locations. (we donated to the relief funding for displaced pets with the hurricane. someone needs to care for them.) I really enjoyed your poem, thank you for this, *hugs xxx Cat
*
When someone reads your work
And responds, please be courteous
And reply in kind, thanks.
Lavender
Wed, 2024-10-16 19:30
Hello, Cat,
Not certain what they were reading, but I'd guess that they routinely visit the library often to keep in touch with the latest news. Such a lovely, intriguing couple.
Thank you for reading and commenting! I'm off to read "Heartbreak Hotel."
Lx
author commentRula
Wed, 2024-10-16 12:13
Wow dear Lavender!
How sharp is your observation.
I can easily see my father (who has just stepped into his nineties) in your lines. He still pay much attention to all that goes around.
I can't choose a favorite line(s) as I really like it all.
Many thanks for sharing this one dear!
❤❤❤❤❤❤
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Lavender
Wed, 2024-10-16 19:35
Hello, My Friend!
Aw...so happy that this brought your father to mind! I'm learning to dearly love my aging peers who are a decade or more older than me. So inspiring!
Life is extraordinary!
Thank you for reading!
L
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