A Rhythm on the Sidewalk

Smokers blow halos
from nearby park benches
and cars hiss at inconvenient
parking spots

the sidewalk crowd, a sink well of
lingering stares. From the bldg’s
front door hands
fumble with keys

and I pause, absorbing
cigarette smells like lurid chatter
in dark alleys, eyes
restless for action. Impatience
gathers in the excitement,
feet flooding, car doors slamming

voices flushed with energy.
Building finally opened, a hush
captures the moment
sidewalk voiding as ebb tide.
Time for Bingo!

© Richard L. Provencher