Microcosm of Train Travel
Train Travel…
In the somber desolation of night
A brilliant light appeared from afar
Swift and unfettered it glides down the track
with engines roaring and throttle ajar.
As pistons throbbed, it served as a beacon
A prayer for the weary to make it home
An iron titan on the rails of freedom
the rolling wheels in peaceful monotone
Each train departs, surrounded by mortar
Landing hourly on the Thirty-Threes
The engine quavers past rocky boarders
Surmounting inclines with inherent ease
Off to the west in the blackest passage,
The moon illumes the river like onyx
Darkness trembles from her undercarriage
the riders on board sip gins and tonics.
With craving ears they can’t help to eavesdrop
latitude and discretion the focus.
An ersatz barkeep blends spirits and pops,
The swift muted whir goes fast unnoticed.
Timeframes linger near or within their scripts
with riders invading each other’s space
We poets adhere readily equipped
with pens and paper for every case.
Maintained in limbo, in three seat cocoons
with faces wandering and fogging windows
the portrait at night, our city, the moon,
the mind romancing with innuendos.
In this panoply of ethos base,
We melt together for a likened cause
For sane routine, safety and lesser rates
to watch the night unfold in sweet applause.
Upon arrival, the doors swing open,
Breath retrieves itself and ears lessen taut.
We say goodbyes and leave Leviathan
Paying respects to our juggernaut
We wield a timid hand to bid farewell
Knowing those masks will be there tomorrow
and diesel smoke mimes diplomacy itself
as empty levity breeds with sorrows
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Another great work Paul, so well penned with elegant phrasing and stark imagery. It flowed beautifully as the train portrayed and the scene so well set for all those aboard. Excellent work my friend. Kudos.
Thank you so much my friend. Tis but my evening ride every once in a while. The scene is the same but the players are always different, quite the show I must say. Thank you again my friend.
Wonderful train trip seems very nostalgic. I enjoyed the ride. Very nicely penned, Paul, with great imagery. Well done.
Thank you Phyllis, it is my evening commute sometimes. At times it is crazy and full of energy and other times it is serenity and silence, either way it is interesting. Thank you so much for your comments Phyllis.
“To watch the night unfold in sweet applause.” Beautiful. You have so many wonderful expressions here, this being one of the best. Some I can relate to, understand and love. Some not so much understanding. Generally, a very well written “trip,” through the night to one’s poetic destination!
Glad you enjoyed this one Donald.