She Faces a Window

Freeverse

I'm hearing that same telephone
from a neighbouring flat,
each day at that same time,
labouring with its ring-ding, ring-ding.

This is no neighbour whom I know
except that I glimpse that face, and hear that bell
each day at that same window
as she turns away from that ring-ding, ring-ding.

Does she love to hear it,
so then can turn her back to it?
How she gazes from that window!
Does she enjoy its ring, and can sing, sing?

Who calls from far or near?
Does that caller use this call
to sing, sing with a dial or buttons?
Is this the way to give a loving ring?


(13 May 2003)

Reviews

[Laz K.]

This poem tells a little story, and by doing so, it prompts the reader to imagine various possibilities and back-stories regarding the "protagonist" and her motivations, and possible reasons for not answering the phone - turning this poem into a film, a short story, or a novel in the mind. An enjoyable read!

[Andrew John]

Thank you so much, Laz.

[Julie McCarthy (juliesp..]

Very interesting indeed
Could be a long lost ex husband or lover or a child that is trying to reaching her
Yes very mysterious
Enjoyed

[Andrew John]

Glad you find it mysterious, Julie. Thanks for comment.

[Julie McCarthy (juliespenhere)]

Especially since hardly any one uses landlines now always a mobile so I feel it’s set in 70 s or 60 s

[jacob erin-cilberto]

"keeping her face in a jar by the door, who is it for?" All the lonely people, they love to hear it ring.
It means someone is remembering them..
j.

[Andrew John]

Thank you, Jacob. Always a helpful and, now and again, unusual comment. Always nice to read, though. And, believe it or not, I hadn't thought of that Beatles song, but can see it now!

[Chris Shaw]

A poem of intrigue. A story unfolding but without an ending. I wanted to know more. Such a visually pleasing piece which stimulates the senses. I kept hearing that phone ring and I can see her too. A great little piece Andrew. Good morning to you.

Chris

[Andrew John]

Thank you so much, Chris. Yes, it is one way to give a ring.