in madrid a frozen german droops
on flower pot along sad spanish sidewalk

his hair silver and gray face, i nod
place change on plate, alive then, says, can you get me a coke? 

been here since 3, points to his gray suit jacket 
they won't let me in like this, hands me coins, stares 

i return, he takes a drink, says, today has been poor
only made 6 euro, need 10 before i go.

another drink, asks, you american? my reply, yes, but you're not spanish.
a smile, then, no, moved here to be with sick mother.

i had job, i electrical engineer, but got
he trails off, searches for word, waves hand, lights cigarette.

how long in europe? and i reply 2 weeks, comment about weather
he fidgets, finishes the coke and it's our time 

i wish you pleasant travels he says, a harlequin salute
jumps back on the flower pot, freezes, aloof