The Collected Writings of Brian J. Mueller
A single poem, met at the right moment, can change a life.
Search and read all 1,834 pieces by Brian J. Mueller — 1,675 poems, 38 prose pieces, and 121 haiku from 12 published volumes. Free to read and share.
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Browse the Twelve Volumes
Brian’s collected pieces, volume by volume.
Dawn
The girl on the train said, “Why do you look at me so sexually? I don’t demean you in the same way.”
“And why not?” I replied. “Are we not sexual beings? Besides, you hardly know me, and I hardly know you. How many ways can you look at a person that you don’t know?”
“I know you,” she said.
“No, you don’t. You think because you’ve spoken to my friend and travel partner about our trip that you know me. Is it conceit, or mere assumption?
“Before you get angry, ask yourself if I am really this pretentious, or if it’s an act. Perhaps you feel you know me because you know my friend. You think I am either exactly like my friend, or the exact opposite. I would suggest the real me lies somewhere in between.
“So take a look. Is what you see sexually appealing? If so, get to know me better.”
“What about you?” she said.
“Are you asking what I think of you, or are you interested in me?”
“Both.”
“How about a drink? I’d like to get to know you.”
“I’m not sure of your intentions,” she smiled.
“Why they’re the same as yours. You’re looking for a passionate, intense, and deep love affair sustained for eternity.”
She nodded, and I extended my hand.