WITH CAT

You think it is 2018 and early morning birds

Sing loudly in late Spring. I know

That it is 1935 and winter is here -- see my coat?

It is heavy and torn and some buttons

Have been replaced by pins.

(In truth, I always wear this coat

Because I am always cold.)

Usually I look down, scanning the ground

For half-smoked cigarettes, my cap pulled down

So that my eyes are in shadow

But now I look at you; my picture's being taken

Here, beneath the French bridge where I sleep.

I'm holding my black cat; why shouldn't she

Have her picture taken? I've seen your dreams;;

Not for a minute do I believe them.