the view from the window begins to change
from tidy, green plots bound by old stone walls
to countless streets, crammed and confined
swarming
clattering
unsettling the mind
excited and antsy to explore different spots
to stroll past the shops, savor new delights
to feel the tempo of a city, tangled with possibilities
populated
sophisticated
drifting as a castaway through its gritty complexities
the fashionable women and chic boutiques
the trendy cafes and stark, urban scenes
past the homeless on corners and downturned eyes
commotion
congestion
the traffic fumes rise
nothing but a stranger here
nameless face in faceless crowds
intriguing to get lost in, but longing to get out
ill at ease
now fatigued
the lure no longer about
all my thoughts now turn to home
to sweet-smelling air and generous smiles
a small, happy cog in a small town’s life
well-embraced
treasured place
simple pleasures, quiet life
eager to finish the business at hand
we grab a quick bite we don’t normally have
and pick up our pace as we aim for the station
for home
to roam
our small town salvation
Dog-eared Stories by anne celano frohna 