A SIMPLER LIFE

From my open window, the sounds

Of raindrops bouncing off the wooden shutters.

Two scraping umbrellas

Passing in the same space

Along the narrow walkway.

Laying in my bed, absorbing

The cries of babies,

Church bells chiming out the hour,

Barking dogs, screeching cats,

This village, isolated when the rains come.

Trapped in paradise

Overpowered by the quaintness and charm

Of a simpler life.

Paolo Driussi