Smoke Rings Float Slow In Kyoto

light tepid steps
to where the air is still
let me in slow, so the smoke rings float
and night fallen swift
so I am a spirit
in the heart of here Kyoto
down some stairs
laid discreet bares a cafe
of ladies in the downtown area
I meet bartender Noda
and drink it black with care
to taste it and take photos

the room is small,
all in all five-by-five
with decor sewn in velour
crimson red and ivory doily,
crystal ashtrays, china cups
makes charming of this diner brew
you are not with me in this moment
but I sip and choke to think of you
yes, though skies grey
and tomorrow be blue,
I go home wishing of my hope you knew

to return to love you
and burn for us as I do these roads
but the wait I cannot ask
either my own heart or yours
I don't know when
I'll be ready to leave,
see this place gives only pleasure when I dine alone