On Charman Road

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

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© Frank Prem, 2001