Stella By Starlight
...a prose poem
Glasses tinkle and there's a steady murmur of
conversation as the club slowly fills to near capacity.
He sits nursing his vodka tonic, waiting for the show
to begin.
The house lights dim and the stage is spot-lit
as the musicians take their places. Chatter modulates
to rapt attention as the first notes drift into the air.
The band has chosen a ballad, 'Stella by Starlight,'
and the familiar strains bring claps of recognition
from the audience. He closes his eyes to concentrate
on the music, pleased they are playing her favorite tune.
The moment is so powerful she is right there with him,
swaying to the rhythm, nestled in his arms,
light as a feather.
It's a long, gentle rendition, almost twelve minutes.
The band takes solos, drawing every nuance from
the old standard, their improvisations bold and fresh.
As they return to the melody the tune gradually
dissolves into silence.
The patrons respond with polite and sustained applause.
When he opens his eyes he finds himself surrounded
by dancers, lovers in each others' arms,
cradled in his own embrace.
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