The island within an island--Central Park
(constructed nature) nested in Manhattan
(hardly a deserted one). Dog-walkers with a fan
of breeds coming behind like a ship’s wake.
Overhearing the music of Hebrew on my block,
(thank you, Synagogue). Yarmulkes and brownstones
wherever I look. Being first in line,
me junkie, at Juilliard, where students rock.
The subway, best possible church, all the intimate
strangers, crowded, face-to-face--grace
abounding. The view of downtown, walking across
the Brooklyn Bridge--faerie castles. Friends, like Colette.
The Fairway, where grocery shopping’s a contact sport.
And everywhere a U. N. of voices, peaceful consort.
