I have become earth
By Jim Smith
Tell me the truth, Don was saying,
Could you live downtown
in one of those new condos?
I shrug. I am a Venetian. It’s not a fair question.
How could I live away from the Lady,
from the smell of the sea.
Here, every house has a history
every street has a resume.
I’d be an ant in an anthill downtown
I am not just this body and mind anymore
I have become a place, a smell, a sound,
I have become earth before my time.
Don’t ya hate it, he taunts,
when they put up another big, ugly box.
I cannot hide the truth.
Yeah, it’s like a punch in the nose,
a stab in the heart.
They’re taking me apart
one brick at a time, I say.
This land is my soul
I cannot write when I go away
The Muse deserts me
because I have deserted her.
I return and lay on the sand
to beg forgiveness.
She is merciful this time.
She tells me to arise
and sing her praises.
The center is restored
I am in my home once more.
————
Crossing
by hillary kaye
No more
does it move itself
it is seen in springs
of golden light
it is felt in rivers
that call its name
it is not where
it should be
it is lost
to itself and will
not be found
again
———–
Venice Beach
By Slim Diamond
Welcome, one and all
to the great Venice beach,
new home of “One Love”
and freedom of speech.
Where souls are rich
and art depicts life,
true sense of purpose,
Bohemian’s delight.
Rainbow of people
come from far and near,
leave astounded by the joys
that are only found here.
We’re all just strugglin’
for a piece of the pie
just being creative,
simply tryin’ to get by.
These very real people
doin’ very real things
at peace with themselves
real visions, real dreams.
Writing’s my true love,
expressing myself,
though my pocket’s on “E”,
my heart’s full of wealth.
Love and harmony reigns
amongst the chosen ones
spreading joy and big fun,
best under the sun.
Bad apples? No doubt.
Of course there’s a few,
up and down the beach
you’ll find a crew, or two.
Now I ain’t one to judge,
hell, I’ve been there myself.
Crazy dope fiend life
wasn’t good for my health.
Despite all that,
the beach is paradise,
the joys and pains
just part of our lives.
Piece by piece,
the powers that be,
tryin’ their best to take away
our civil liberties.
It ain’t gonna happen
‘cause it’s not their choice,
there’s a much higher force
behind the people’s voice.
No need to worry,
spend some money, have fun,
peace and love’s supreme
out here under the sun.
Let’s all have a good day
and practice what we preach,
enjoy the sunshine and
your stay at Venice Beach.
Categories: Poetry
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