Portland

[paradoxical]

each rainy day
ends like an idea
that never took shape,
a dull haze,
warm and quiet,
impermanent as smoke

I watch through
the window of the train

heading southwest,
downtown again
but nowhere to go,
sit in Pioneer Square
or ride the Max
and think of home

get off at Skidmore
and walk to the river

Mt. Hood sits proud
on the eastern horizon,
the poisoned water
of the Willamette
sings a swirling song
past Waterfront Park

I am still too shy,
too afraid

even in this city
I know that I am alone,
I speak quietly,
with guarded caution

I walk as a stranger

[PrinceMyshkin]

Wonderful evocation of the city itself and, of course, finally, of yourself in that city.

[paradoxical]

Thank you for the kind words, that means a lot to me.