In the photograph
you can't see the dog barking
but most figure it out...

The rest is easy. Buy your ticket
in advance. Take only an overnight bag.
Don't wear a silk kimono or floppy hat.
Take the night train
to paris  and witness
wet orange soak through
to cause the miracle.
                              It may
first appear as light shining
on crimson petals or as
a wish bent in a box. 
                               It has
been known to resemble a secret attic
or even a palomino from kansas...

just keep in mind
the grimy bathroom floor
and filthy sink is merely stage props.
           Each actor still contributes
his "the world for an onion" monologue
according to script
             just before the frenchman
hums at the bus stop
with his coat unbuttoned
signaling the car to rush by
with our lives in it.

© 2005 by Maurice Oliver. All rights reserved.