she gave me plants, more than i expected
i gave her a pocket mirror
as barter
all i had since lockdown
planted in the heat
found more places to clear
another day
later i heard the sound
opened the doors
watched the rain
as if i had not seen water before
i heard the neighbour’s door
i guessed he watched too
before i had looked at the jug
full
as if i had not seen such a thing
before
i went out real early to avoid folk
met those
who had the same idea
it is the weekend
and i understand that many
ignored the rules and may
be expected in hospital soon
according to the news
i settled back with the geranium leaves
and liked what i drew
on one note of delight
i locked the studio tight
so the feeling may remain
today looks refreshed
damp slate
and newness
james
jazz piano