Impressions

Walking the Gran Via in Madrid before dawn:

Most people stand in doorways and near corners, watching for

Signs, but resigned to ushering night out.

Leaving Rome in a Rainstorm:

Umbrella shredded, suitcase soaked, train ticket to Florence

Tucked beside my damp wallet.

Approaching the Nudist Beach in Barcelona:

A bicyclist dismounts, the walkers all slow, no one wants

to pass by too quickly.

Washington's Constitution Avenue on July 4th:

A loud band marching between the throngs of sweating citizens

lining the avenue.

April, Luxembourg Gardens, Paris:

The central lawn's lush green blanket untrod, unblemished

small sails tilt and circle in the large stone basin.