For a while at the farmer’s market
it was a happier America. People
were pleasant, shopping in the shade
under the awning. Multiple languages,
all shades of skin, Christians
and Jews and Muslims. Hindus
and Buddhists and Secular Humanists.
I bought Hungarian paprika, local garlic,
Mennonite bread, a bouquet of flowers
for my wife from a woman
who sold bok choi and radishes.
For lunch there were vine ripened
Arkansas tomatoes, chili peppers,
and Mexican Coca Cola. I’m certain
someone who had never
watched soccer in their life
went on and on about Messi’s Hat Trick.
Al Ortolani is a retired public school teacher in the Kansas City area. His poems have appeared widely. He learned the ins and outs of soccer by following his children and grandchildren through the magic of the sport, albeit often confused by the rules.
