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

 

Paul Neglia
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Paul Neglia

Proud father of 3. Part time writer of poetry and short stories. I want to paint the world in but a few words.

6 thoughts on “Microcosm of Train Travel

  • June 6, 2017 at 4:57 PM
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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.

    • June 7, 2017 at 11:53 AM
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      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.

    • June 7, 2017 at 11:52 AM
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      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.

  • June 27, 2017 at 3:57 AM
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    “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!

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