SATURDAY MATINEE

Anonymous at home--twelve of us
two families gathered in Granddads home
a depression days necessity.

Saturday mornings, a ride to town
in Uncle Bub's black Buick
A quarter in my purse--enough
for movies, popcorn,
the bus ride home!

Fresh popcorn aroma
Great anticipation,
Standing in line
Awaiting the enclosing darkness.

Movie magic--Buck Rogers, Three Stooges,
Mickey Mouse, Porky Pig, Gene Autry.
Popcorn or chocolate fudgcicle, prizes,too!
Three hours of escape--all alone.

I emerge into the startling sunlight,
Instant headache
Emerge into the real world,
nine years old.