A Return

The town met me with
a homeless smile
that flew above the toothless tunnels,
a moth uncertain where to crash,
 too many lanterns,

a trail of traffic lights
 reflected in splashed puddles,
green rivers
lying flat under my tires,

clock towers and clouds 
of glowing golden spray
around every car,

tall buildings, small benches,
dog parks… 

I thought I'd never return
but here I was 
still carrying the smell
 of bonfires deep in my lungs,
driving cautiously
as if for the first time.

Shop windows,
old trees lost in the traffic circles,
cathedrals and monuments
excited voices, high-heeled lines
to the popular bars…

My town met me with  love.
I felt cozy and warm
seeing again a shy smile
in his nearsighted eyes.