Frail sparrows wait without flight at the take-out counter. The aroma reduces the chill of hunger; accepting gladly the warm prize they turn with hope, stepping out into the cold. Fast thoughts whisk across tables and counters. Words mixed with coffee and cigarettes fuel pointing fingers as the world is explored over hamburgers and … More OPEN SHADOWS
It was the night highway. A place between diners. Where neon signs slept and traffic didn’t exist; an area absent of social politeness. A place where answers came from dreams and shadows had influence. Where empty lots and lost dogs crowded near the last highway sign. Drive on while tires turn the miles like … More NO STOPPING
The silence embraced her as she arrived; a comfortable calm with open arms, a place of welcome. She stood with confidence under the boughs of a great tree. Holding her place. Patient. A light breeze rustled the edges of her dress. The leaves above pressed out a soft motion. In her hand were flowers, freshly … More FINDING COMFORT
He leaned with curiosity. Both hands on the neck of the shovel; his left leg slightly bent. A wide brim hat created a recessed cavern for the eyes to hide. The top two buttons of the blue shirt lay unhinged; sweat streaked under the well-worn cloth. Dusty untied shoes expressed the unwholesomeness from the loss … More CAPTURED
He feigns the opening delight of day with a yawn; his eyes express a sad boredom. He stretches out night, arching himself like a snake wrapped in fur. He saunters with confidence over rugs and hardwood floors, glancing with occasion while passing open doors and shadowed corners for lurking danger. He assembles his lithe frame … More STAYSAIL
I feel the melancholy in the youth of my legs. The missed chances to run while entertaining too much rest; my past indifferences plague me. I remember when I challenged the wind, claiming no defeat or tasting the vanquish of second place. I open to the fondness of fleeting victories, savoring the memories that are … More OVER AND AWAY
That falling star is mine. The one full of my wishes. The dates and times bundled like knotted twine. It’s all there, the broken hearts, skinned knees, minced oaths and promises waiting to be fulfilled. Like the one about my father. His passing too soon and the wish to hear him say my name one … More LOOKING UP
A jukebox holds a corner of the room hostage. Half lit. Its neon’s struggle to blink. A scratchy song labors in love. Diner patrons huddle in whispers. A black and white checkered floor supports night traffic. Crumpled napkins on the tables; one has a phone number written in red. Green cracked seat cushions welcome the … More THE GATHERING
Early morning winds. The signature of change. Branches sway under invisible force proving winds visible actions. There are no lines of streaming; randomness is consistently present. From all sides it pushes. Objects may divert its path, but never restrict its intent. Its pattern is untraceable, regardless of science, it changes without reason. It curves within … More ALWAYS AROUND
He brushed through the shortcut, down familiar alleys, past trash cans and men sleeping in corners. Onto a sidewalk, weaving past suits, hats and shoes; temporary barriers to the right of passage. The song of buses, cars and sirens stir the soup of air hanging over streets. Further but not farther the … More PARTING PLACES
Roger Singer 