Richard L. Matta
Outside the parade grounds
a sun-drenched veteran-flat top
grey, sandpaper rough
is touched by bleeding skies.
His crickety old legs now riveted
segments of racket and ping
speak in clinky chatter.
The trumpets through the fence-line
like seashells blare notes of longing
but his hands leave the wheels
to cover his tears.
Bio
Richard L. Matta grew up in New York's rustic Hudson Valley, attended Notre Dame, practiced forensic science, and now lives in San Diego with his golden-doodle dog. Some of his work is found in Ancient Paths, Dewdrop, New Verse News, San Pedro River Review, and Healing Muse.