The alleys reek of rum and pine trees,
neon bar signs croon a
twisted Christmas Carol,
people grin, dragging bags of
anxiety and presents,
slamming doors behind them like
a drunk drummer boy.
I sit at the bar, empty glass, empty heart,
watching snow waltz across the
lonely sidewalk.
A twisted Santa staggers past,
bells jangling
like he’s calling the reindeer
home, lost and late.
Somewhere, a child’s joy is ecstatic.
Somewhere, a man cries, eggnog-smeared,
remembering the wife.
The stars bring both together,
a tender lullaby across cities and towns,
beneath the jaded sky.
I bum a drink and raise my glass,
to broken hearts and bent spirits,
to busted ornaments and the nativity scene,
missing two wise men sitting on
the old record player,
to beauty beneath the grimy snow.
Well, it’s the season—
love and sorrow tied up in a
red bow for the night.
Superb piece of Xmas cheer that makes the reader thirsty for more. A clever write that brings images I would love to see in an old Twilight Zone or Night Gallery episode. Your work is always exceptional.
Much appreciated.
Powerfully penned, Thomas. Excellent Xmas write my friend. I pictured the Santa as Billy Bob Thornton. Too much Bad Santa I guess. Appreciate you.
Damian
Lol. Thank you.
There’s a quality to your pieces that feels very much like a storyteller who shares bits of life as he passes. You take us there, without frills, and deposit us in the scene. Always a treasure to read your words
Thank you, so much.