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