Unwanted Flight
I know these women
that have their entire life
crammed into a bag
with a pack of Marlboros
and a beat up lighter
that ignites on the third
strike
they drive
like they’re running
tires to the road
foot to the floor
with a half working radio
that she turns up on
old songs that aren’t good
and if you get to ride along
theres nothing but dark nights
no control
with rushing wind through
a car that has seen better days
however long you get
it always ends with you
back home feeling hollow
wondering if you loved them
or if that was
something else
one thing is for sure
they’ll outlive us all
12 thoughts on "Unwanted Flight"
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they drive
like they’re running
tires to the road
foot to the floor
with a half working radio
that she turns up on
old songs that aren’t good
and if you get to ride along
theres nothing but dark nights
no control…..
so impressed. created pictures in my mind, a feeling of a person I know.
Thank you. It’s one we all know I think.
I knew a woman like this. Your poem puts me right in the car. Nicely done
Thank you.
This feels familiar and new all at the same time. Not sure if that makes sense, but it does to me. That first stanza is sparkling. Well done.
Thank you so much.
You paint them so well, I think we can all relate. The poem has a sharp edge and a tender heart. “And if you get to ride along/there’s nothing but dark nights” seems to say it all. Really nice to read your work again this year!
I like the sharp edge and tender heart.
I love the imagery and this vivid portrait of a woman I’m certain I know. I can smell the cigarettes.
So can I.
I love the following lines:
with rushing wind through
a car that has seen better days
The poem is accessible and hard-hitting without coming off bitter. Not easy to write.
Thank you. I am glad you read it that way.