Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Momentum



I shuffle my feet on the subway platform to 
strains of "The Theme from Arthur" in a noble 
attempt to keep the ice from forming on my brain.

The sighs and groans of my fellow patrons play 
with my ears and I begin humming Dudley's tune.

The girl with dried blood on her pants is tap dancing her way across the tracks. I stop to think for a moment then place a quarter into her brown palm.

As the Bronx bound 9 approaches the station 
I obey the warnings and stand back.

Im not certain yet if people really do get pushed or if it is simply the urge to jump that is the greater danger.

I "Stand clear for closing doors!" and opt to stand 
even though the car is half empty.  
How is that for optimism?

The Doors Slam

I tighten my grip on the door knob in front of me and 
turn with all my strength. The light is seeping through 
but I keep my eyes open and turn-turn-turn-

"59th St. Columbus Circle with transfers to A, B, C and D trains!"

3 comments:

Anna B said...

I know both - those that want to jump off and those that want to push people off in to the tracks.

I've learned they're equally dangerous.

But, I guess I've always loved living on the edge.

Test said...

It's almost scary how hard it used to be not to jump...and not for any reason...weird.

H.F. said...

that's why I'm afraid of heights... I'm always afraid I will jump. hm. I'm also afraid I will stick my hand in the garbage disposal. I'm so glad we don't have one. So so odd.