Charman Road people brace the wind aside
shoulder deeper within the layers of doing what’s necessary
ignore the favourable possibilities of an inside table
to hunch over kerb-side latte and primary smoke inhalation
raise their heads outside of coats for minimal moments
that cause an icy tear to form and trickle down
before being brushed by a rapid-fire hand unfolded only briefly
it’s cold enough for stoics on Charman Road
hands in pockets
folded-over arms
red-and-white knuckle plastic grocery bags
trembling breath and body
hugging melee of one
god it’s cold on Charman Road
© Frank Prem, 2001
Reblogged this on O LADO ESCURO DA LUA.
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🙂
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So glad I don’t live on Charman Road! Though the huddle sounds mildly warm (if not freezing) and friendly. Made me laugh out loud.
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Miserable place. Antarctic in the wind.
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Yikes!
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