THINK OF THE PLANES FLYING

(For W. C. W.)

Think of the planes flying
into the morning sun
while I wash my face
in the bathroom sink.

Think of the ships sailing
across the trembling noon
while I eat my lunch
at the cafiteria counter.

Think of the rockets climbing
towards the first stars
while I help my wife
with the dinner dishes

Feel this summer-evening hour filled with
---what regret?
---what promise?
---what longing?
---what loss?

Is this why houses have windows...? 


Felix Pollak