Christopher Atamian: Washington Heights - 2

Haredim

I ask the Orthodox men if they know
Where I may find the local Starbuck's
And:
Mouths that will not
(Acknowledge me purse their lips, silent)
Hats that will not
(Reveal head to sky, remain still)
Skirts that will not
(Graze the ground, shuffle)
Hands that will not
(Touch the goyim, retract)
It is Friday 5 pm
Soon they will turn off their lights and
Retreat to their candle-lit rooms
Religion, meant to bring light
Sometimes
Brings darkness instead.


Christopher Atamian. Used here by kind permission of the author.