Envying the Ability of Mittens

by Ave Jeanne Ventresca


woolen scarves and mittens sleep on the third shelf
of this old metal rack. they sit methodical,
arranged by size or perhaps by frequency
of use. december air floats through a crack
in the window and just now
discarded letters creep across these cold floors.
resisting urges to climb back under sheets,
warm and friendly, i follow curiosity
and listen to voice mail that has been neglected.
strangers, friends, perhaps voices of lovers.

i attempt to avoid losing my smile, breathe
in a mirror’s reflection and prepare for an arduous day
that weighs in front of me like the sound of hearts
that beat while at dance.  now i awaken the

scarf, beckon the door to let me pass
and head towards victoria station to begin my walk.
under a heavy sun, through crowded streets, i avoid

all eyes of strangers as my boots carry me onto
the eager train. an american offers me a seat,
and my nod offers gratitude,
honest and humble. back and forth voices bounce,
each with a different accent that touches
my ears with interest.  as another shiver arrives,
i wrap my coat around my achy legs,
open this weathered book
and read chapter nine, as not to waste time. yet my

thoughts jump back to the old metal rack at home,
with the scarves and mittens on the third shelf,
and i envy their ability to sleep warm and quiet
on this cold winter morning.


* * * * *

Ave Jeanne Ventresca (aka: ave jeanne) is the author of nine chapbooks of poetry that reflect social and environmental concerns. Her most recent collection, Noticing The Colors of Ordinary, was released in the summer of 2019. She edited the acclaimed literary magazine Black Bear Review, and served as publisher of Black Bear Publications for twenty years. Her award winning poetry (contemporary and Asian) has been widely published internationally within commercial and literary magazines, in print and online. Ave Jeanne was nominated for the Pushcart Prize for 2019.