meeting Nola

Frank Prem

oh god

 

she said

 

oh Christ

 

the three steps
loomed
looked set to defeat her

 

bony fragility
her walking-aid an impediment
to balance
she leaned against the rail
and grasped
with both hands
and a shaking tremble

 

oh lord

 

he noticed the desperation
the death-grip on the railing
the bunching of stocking around each ankle

 

can I lend a hand

 

a slow pivot
to release one hand
and launch with a lunging clutch
onto his arm

 

the music starts
at one o’clock
oh Christ

 

a slow peregrination
up three steps
arm-in-arm
then along the uneven path
trembled grasp translated
into the vice-like clench
of the frail afraid

 

in the auditorium doorway
a long look of assessment
at avenues threaded through seating
and the location of friends
before glancing up

 

my name
is Nola

 

who are you

 

~

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Comments +

Comments4

  • Goldfinch60

    Such a meaningful write.

    • Frank Prem

      Thank you GF. It was an interesting encounter.

    • FredPeyer

      Frank, this poem is just great. I stopped at the end with a 'what just happened?' kind of thought in my head. There is a much deeper meaning here, and you can be sure I will eventually get it.

      • Frank Prem

        It was an actual encounter, Fred. One that I felt worth recording. Felt meaningful to me at the time.

      • Accidental Poet

        Shows what a Good Samaritan you are Frank. And an excellent poet too.

        • Frank Prem

          A sucker for an old lady in distress, AP. Thank you. Cheers.

          • Accidental Poet

            Aren't we all Frank? Cheers.

          • Louis Gibbs

            'The kindness of strangers' ... I adore the theme, Frank. Beautifully portrayed in this heart touching write. Wouldn't it be nice if ... oh well, maybe some day.

            • Frank Prem

              Maybe some day, Louis. Glad you enjoyed. Thank you.



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