Poem by R.M. Dolin, February 12, 2024
Cycling on Smiles
It’s a silly simple bike
I bought used at
that shop on the edge of town
during my second visit to Versailles,
but I do so love it.
Memories get carried on
it’s glossy gray frame
that only has space for smiles.
I’m transported to
that cloudy afternoon
we picnicked in the park
where you worried we’d get caught
but never told me to stop,
or the day we rode in the rain
through the forest
and rested beside a small pond
eating store bought salad
while I talked about riding
the Paris-Roubaix
to suffer over muddy cobblestones hoping
you’d be impressed.
Each and every memory
cataloged by my heart
in a sacred place that
holds you dear.
I’ll miss my bike
that I so love,
but just can’t allow
myself to ride if
you’re not beside me.
Background poem for the novel, “The Dangling Conversation.” Kyle reminiscences on the wonderful moments he and Nadia shared as they cycled around Versailles.
Comments are closed