I have visited many cities
Concrete, abstract, or oblique
Some in summer, most at night
Every one of them was unique

Minor capitals, residues
Industrial or otherwise
Birch-barking, coal-firing,
Ways to make railroad ties

Some control the currency
Still others control the tides
Some leave streets to find their way
Those are the best place to hide

Cities are best when they promote
Low rents and vacant space
Cities that want the arts to thrive
Need chaos to show its face

Will you provide a full report
From notes or memory?
The clank, the rubbish, the crumbling walls
Skyline, what there might breathe

I have visited many cities
Concrete, abstract, or oblique
Some in summer, most at night
And every one was unique

6/23/24 (2)