THE MTA DENIES RESPONSIBILITY

Among the unplanned consequences of repairs
To the Joralemon Street subway tunnel
Was the sudden appearance of Walt Whitman
In the laundromat on Middagh where he now lives.
He appears to be about forty and, while reticent
About the exact circumstances of his return,
Talks endlessly about himself and his dismay
At Brooklyn living under Manhattan's thumb.

AUBADE

As you approach Joralemon
Two homeless gods nod to you.
The shadows dogging your heels
Turn the corner, pretending
A dream has ordered them
To visit the Municipal Building
At three in the morning.