A stack of black metal and plastic
on a corner cabinet shelf
Wires and buttons, numbers and notches
just another dusty part of the furniture
until you flip the power switch
opening a portal to other worlds
of sound and emotion
Play some John Coltrane on the stereo
and try to convince yourself it’s gonna be alright
You’ve got some fine wine in the freezer
to help you make it through the night,
Or through December, when like Merle Haggard
You’re making plans to be in a warmer town.
- Kevin Oliver
National Poetry Writing Month 2019, day 12: Prompt was to write about something dull that you have, and why you love it. This one’s about the stereo system I’ve had for 3o+ years in some form or another. Today’s title comes from one of my favorite bands, The Dream Syndicate.
Kevin Oliver Poetry 