They don't want to be alone.

 

Students, workers, retirees, poets, authors, preachers, painters, photographers, doctors, lawyers, engineers, the unemployed, and everyone else keep coming in droves -- some are happy, some are sad, some are searching, some are content, but none of them want to be alone.

 

They come to the coffee shops and slide into a booth next to a smudged window, flip open their laptops, connect to the satellite in the sky, spread out their books and papers so they look official, doing their best to dodge the slashes of light, in search a shadow that provides a feeling of safety and anonymity. A Cappuccino, Americano, or a latte is a must, but if they're low on dough, a water with ice and a straw will do. The coffee shop chaos of steamers, grinders, shouted names on the orders, and the line of waiting chatters makes no difference. They could be far more efficient at home where the coffee is cheaper and silence abounds, but they don't want to be alone.

 

They don't want to be alone.

 

Chicago, IL

2023

© James Rice, All Rights Reserved