Traffic and Marigolds

5 north to
101 north
Exit Spring St.--
In front of Our Lady of the Angeles Cathedral,
A single sparrow
Bathes itself
Inside the flowing midday fountain;
The traffic never ceases.

Cesar Chavez Ave West to
Whittier Blvd.--
A man on a beach cruiser
Carries a bundle of marigolds
Inside the bicycle’s makeshift basket;
The traffic never ceases.

5 south to
605 south to
405 north
Exit Venice Blvd.--
A scattered army of seagulls
Fades not unlike
The Pacific sunset;
The traffic never ceases.