Six Rooms Poem by Salvatore Ala

For Lauren


The first is my window blinds.

Slats with pull cords

Between light and dark.


The second is my carpet.

A magic carpet of wine tracks

Notated by cannabis tacks.


The third is the cigarette tin

In which I keep my addiction

To loose change and nicotine.


Fourth, a few fossils

I found on a beach

In primeval childhood.


Next to last my old pool cue.

I play impossible shots

On imaginary tables.


Finally, a faded photograph

In inexpensive frame

Of someone loved and lost.