As we drive around

looking for an all-night diner

Katie tells me it’s a crime 

against artistry

to make restless minds 

work on bankers’ hours.

We see someone we know

hitting a stop sign

with a pillow. 

This is just the beginning

of a long journey

but imagine the possibilities.

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Justin Karcher (Twitter: @justin_karcher, Bluesky: justinkarcher.bsky.social) is a Best of the Net- and Pushcart-nominated poet/playwright living in Buffalo, NY. He is the author of several books, including Tailgating at the Gates of Hell (Ghost City Press, 2015). Recent playwriting credits include The Birth of Santa (American Repertory Theater of WNY) and “The Trick Is to Spill Your Guts Faster Than the Snow Falls” (Alleyway Theatre). Check out his website, https://www.justinkarcherauthor.com.