An Old Library in Rio

Forever, once, twice, and never.

There’s an old library in Rio de Janeiro

So meet me there

With nowhere to sit comfortably,

Three tiers of blue green and red volumes

Gold brocade pillars, thin stairs,

We’ll have to keep moving.

 

If it were a sitting place,

You and I would do so right away.

In the same large chair,

Far enough apart

That someone might think

You were my young uncle

Taking me on an errand,

Waiting for the cool night.

 

Look at me across the large desk,

With the green glass lamps and

Little brass strings no one ever pulls.

I can remind you of college.

Slender thighs in the dusty light

And now we’re deep

In the afternoon I waited for.

Tell me about yourself.

 

Some years from now,

When I’m walking in another grand city

Studying alone for the first time

Sore toes in thin sandals

Café lights at dusk and

Nothing about the beauty is subtle.

I can’t remember

That now I’m living my life.

I’ll walk too quickly and miss things.

 

If this were my dream I would be in it.

You left me with no more questions

On how I want to spend my youth. 

Reviews

[ChemicalMadness]

I especially enjoyed the fourth stanza....there's some real beauty and honesty in those lines. I look forward to seeing more of your work.

CM.

[Consuela Burke]

Thank you, CM. It's probably my most honest poem, and I am not very good at writing honestly.

[Avocations of Amber]

This is charming and sweet. I like the essence of youth you bring in this poem. The free verse is refreshing. :)

[Consuela Burke]

What a warm and insightful introduction to this community I have had today, thank you.