I wish I could tell you a thing about cities,
how red taillights are like beads on a string
or each square in the sidewalk is like a charm
or a link binding neighbor to neighbor.
I wish I could give you the excitement of cities,
a defense against green lawns and isolation,
a song of new urbanism and vibrant community.
But I’m tired, and the bracelet is tarnished.
Maybe just for today — but I can’t wish it away.
Prompts: Poetic Asides (Urban _____) and Imaginary Garden with Real Toads (a bracelet).
Marilyn Rauch Cavicchia 
I love this prompt mashup. So much love for this:
“red taillights are like beads on a string”
Some days I feel the same about where I live. There is new construction of every kind going on, but it doesn’t look very charming at times. Such a creative take on bracelet. Thanks so much for writing and sharing in the garden!
I wish for it too. I wonder why we still need fences. Love how you used the bracelet as a symbol.
Thank you, Bjorn! I have such mixed feelings these days, regarding cities in general and my city in particular.
I think you told us very well.
Thank you, Rosemary! I currently have one of those “Nobody beats up my kid brother but me” things with city living and with my city (Chicago) in particular.