a stroll

September 12, 2010
Milwaukee, WI


I came across a praying mantis along the river walk tonight. She stood on a cement railing that was shrouded in a dim red light, cast off from some left over construction lights. At first she shied away from me, but then move closer, staring at me with huge black eyes. Button eyes, full of curiosity.


Being out in the city at night is both terrifying and exhilarating. 


Due to a sidewalk closure I was directed onto the opposite side of the river that I had, up until that point, not ventured along. What a surprise! There were tangled copper archways lined with lights, ivy, and stones. The mellow lighting that was emitted complimented my mood almost perfectly. 


A man with three teeth sat on a bench in Pere Marquette Park. On his lap was an open laptop and in his hand was a lit cigarette. He smiled, sticky gums protruding, and asked how I was doing. I answered, and returned the greeting. 


"Doin' jes fine. Got meh cawfee and I'm surfin' the net."