The gate opens easily -
someone's oiled it quite recently.
There's fresh gravel on the path
this winter day.
There's a dog kennel out there and
a single warning bark from inside the house but
your shins are safe.
Those neighbours of his seem
quiescent today..
The doormat has said
WELCOME for
some frayed years now.
There are lights on and
the door opens quickly although
they weren't expecting you so soon.
'How about a walk around after
coffee, this crisp morning?
Just as far as you like? There's
lots to show you..'
We walk further than
I intended, laughing
over the word
'accessible'.
what a lighthearted treasure, Michael. the frayed Welcome mat conjures quite a homey image. good show. Jake
What a lovely warm poem, Michael. My favorite line 'the doormat has said Welcome for some frayed years now.' You captured that homey, midwestern feeling that his poems show us...Accessible, yes, but straight to the heart. Raynette
This is so much fun, Shep. And yes, 'accessible' is the key word, almost too accessible, if that's possible. You've hit upon the wonderful genre of poetry about other poets. Collins does it too, for example, with 'Taking Off Emily Dickinson's Clothes, ' probably my favorite poem of his. Good job.
Sounds like a wonderfully peaceful visit. Nice of you to allow us to accompany you. :) Sincerely, Mary
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
Anyone who is familiar with Billy Collins' work felt the congruence. The details were perfect! well done.