We did Paris and I got sick.
I just about made it from a day in bed to the bistro next door.
I ordered dry fettuccine and the waiter met me_with a blank face_
She bought fashion magazines but wanted the Louvre -
Flicked through TV channels but needed subtitles.
And when I was able, we walked by the Seine.
Traced the citrus notes over the waves
. and then hung on to the railings.
We walked until the blisters on my feet were like radishes.
Gave a begging man, freshly squeezed orange juice and a block of dark chocolate.
He.kissed.the.air.
We made it to the Eiffel tower but didn't have the money to go up or even to buy one from a suitcase.
And so we broke bread on the grass and watched.
That was Paris for us.