Brown Cat in Summer<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o> </o>Cat runs across the hot, softening tar. The pattering of soft padded paws Is like sweat dripping Off a landscaper’s brow. <o> </o> This furry, chocolate body Thinks she hates water But, poor thing, she’s never Taken a dip in the <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" /><st1lace w:st="on">Atlantic</st1lace> On a day like this. <o> </o> Tail practically drags, Bobbing centimeters away From scalding asphalt With each light thud Of each dark foot. <o> </o> Round cat belly Wobbles shamelessly From side to side While the shadow of Feline hips appears and Retreats in the Cruel white light. <o> </o> The sunlight has inlaid The pavement with silver; <st1lace w:st="on"><st1:City w:st="on">Sterling</st1:City></st1lace> and aluminum Shiver in a mirage, And a brown cat is running, Looking for shade. I'll miss you, Whoopah Girl.
