Like walking into the beer store
get in line get in line
though this establishment
a wee bit different
its customers
a unique variety of clientele

Eyeing one another
just a little nervously at first
as all quickly settle in
to the appropriate body language
each taking his or her turn
to gaze up and down
the magic chalk board wall
overwhelmed
so many names/sub-species

My first time doing it this way
almost couldn’t find the place
despite reliable directions
for unlike others come before them
a little more discrete in the signage department
no giant leaves spread across
glass billboards
crass neon lighting pointing the way

Both guys behind the counter
younger than me by at least 20 years
I would say facially of the Woodstock variety
give me a wry smile
as I tell them what I want

And though I’m tempted to
shout out the store’s name and address
in pure joy...

Now why would I go and do something foolish as that?

© 2018
Illustration courtesy of Playboy magazine




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06/01/2018

Posted on 06/01/2018
Copyright © 2024 Chris Sorrenti