Slow Trains

by Susannah Indigo
(2/28/01)

Considering my future
from the observation
car of California Zephyr #6,
I roll away from the power of
you. Farmlands flow by with grace --
simpler lives by far, the heartland
of love. Where does our sad struggle
come from?

Sophistication pales
against
the rhythm
of slow
trains

The wizened conductor
runs this trip most every day;
he's probably loved his wife
for forty years, perhaps I'll ask him
why. Will he speak of strength and values, or
simply shrug and sigh? Did we laugh
once more than cry? Do we mean the words we
say?

Sophistication pales
against
the rhythm of
slow trains; guard
my heart in the
dimming
light

Children sing and dance in
aisles; we were young once, pure
at heart. I do believe you love me,
though it's really just a start; secret words
and actions break our closeness fast
away. Will you stay with me
forever? Should we take it day by
day?

Sophistication pales
against the rhythm of
slow trains; guard
my heart in the dimming light,
pretend we have
no past

Crossing the Mississippi, you seem
a universe away. The river is eternal,
yet always ripe for change; a goal to
contemplate. The distant side of
trouble arises in my sight
but my journey ends in tears;
I can't leave you, and I can't
stay

Sophistication pales
against the rhythm of
slow trains; guard my heart
in the dimming light, pretend
we have no past; dear God,
please let our future
last.