Please, not under fluorescent lights
or in and amongst stainless, sterile things
about a fluster of people
or in the middle of a summer’s day
(if it can be avoided).
The wrench would be too much.
Though, under a full moon
on a walk through a summer’s night—
that would be altogether satisfactory
but if I am to have my druthers
might I go, in a quiet corner somewhere
under subdued light and after a gourmet meal:
a Caesar perhaps,
pheasant in a blackberry coulis,
a glass of a good Chablis
followed by crepes Suzette?
Then, just as I’m finishing a fine cognac…
(before the waiter brings the bill)
Oh, and God, just one more thing,
might you arrange for Kirsten Flagstad
to be singing, Mild und leise…?
Cordially,
yours etc., etc.
©SJW. 16 January 2005 5:05 a.m.