At the Airport

August 14, 1992

I Trim, slim pumps

With high heels

Thin legs, neat suit.

II White shoes, sensible heels

Sturdy walk, baggage

Trailing on wheels.

III Sneakers,

Well-worn

Slouching along

IV Four feet, dainty steps

Spikes, slacks,

Two girls, arm in arm.

V Worn shoes

Flat heels,

Baby in stroller.

VI Shoes, too big

Smaller shoes, and

Many bags, following.

VII Shiny black shoes

Faltering gait, carriage

Painfully straight.

VIII "Loading at Gate

Number Twelve!"

I join

The hurrying feet.