It was quiet there
At the counter sat the simple figure
Slender yet tenacious, given a supple form
Coffee mug lifted unto lips somberly as the cig burned
Pad on the counter full of scribbled out hasty words no meanings
It erupted there
Mind full of ideals and whispers
Water offered from a passing smiling girl
Worn slender talon like hands enwrapping the glass
Soft displace smile in the eyes words spoken, "thanks"
It was quiet there
Away from the bombings, children beaten
Masque lain strewn out upon the counter and rapier aside
Back to the world leaning over the scribbles, perfecting
feeling the whip
Maniacal grin to his lips, clasping the cig now as the coffee
mug sat there empty
It erupted there
Isolation of the soul for dissection
Esscenses reflected outwardly so drawn inwardly
Gentle voice unto the madness "more coffee mister" sweet warmth
Unease, hand upon rapier and masque prepared and apt for the
unknown
It was quiet there
Long ago distant memories hewn in silken colors
Soft velvetine words not really needed but welcomed
"Coffee on the house" a paper with a number lain upon the counter
Satchel restocked turning in subtle steps toward the exits now,
swiftly flitting away
Benjamin K. Badgley
June Wednesday 20, 2001