navwin » Archives » Open Poetry #44 » The Window Washer
Open Poetry #44
Post A Reply Post New Topic The Window Washer Go to Previous / Newer Topic Back to Topic List Go to Next / Older Topic
Namyh
Senior Member
since 2009-01-20
Posts 988


0 posted 2009-05-04 06:39 PM


The Window Washer

There was a secretary working on the 34th floor
at her desk, in a chair, by the new boss's door.
She could work and polish nails with a snobbish delight,
type a letter, take dictation in the absence of light,
brew the coffee, answer phones, solve the problems that bind,
add some lipstick and perfume, arrange a meeting on time.

Outside her window, lightly beat the rain and freezing snow
on a window washer working on the 34th floor.
Up at dawn, pack a lunch, wife and kids are asleep.
Off to work, catch a train from the somber, silent street.
Check the gear, add some oil and it's up and up he'll go
to meet with Mr. Clean upon the 34th floor.

She writes a note and holds it up. He sees it at last.
His frozen fingers write one too and puts it up to glass.
Her's said "It's 72 degrees ! Come in and take a chair."
His said "It's 50 bucks an hour mam, in freezing rain out here."

Just when you think your thinking is the only way that's true,
there's a window washer working with another point of view.

Namyh



© Copyright 2009 Namyh - All Rights Reserved
Robert E. Jordan
Member Rara Avis
since 2008-01-25
Posts 8541
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
1 posted 2009-05-04 07:53 PM


Yo dear Namyh,

This poem works good.  He's got the right idea.

Love Bobby


Klassy Lassy
Member Elite
since 2005-06-28
Posts 2187
Oregon
2 posted 2009-05-04 09:17 PM


Priorities and loyalties... What a wonderful vignette and an epiphany that reminded me of what many workers endure to make a good living for their families.  

...and yes, the view depends on which side of the window one is on.  

Post A Reply Post New Topic ⇧ top of page ⇧ Go to Previous / Newer Topic Back to Topic List Go to Next / Older Topic
All times are ET (US). All dates are in Year-Month-Day format.
navwin » Archives » Open Poetry #44 » The Window Washer

Passions in Poetry | pipTalk Home Page | Main Poetry Forums | 100 Best Poems

How to Join | Member's Area / Help | Private Library | Search | Contact Us | Login
Discussion | Tech Talk | Archives | Sanctuary