The humblest infrastructure is the best:
The square, or plaza (with some chairs set out
That may be moved beneath a tree), to rest;
Or else, when what you’d like to do’s get out,
A path—like what we’re walking on today.
It’s just a pavement ribbon, twelve feet wide,
But look at all these people on their way!
Old people, lovers, babes in arms, a pride
Of kids on bikes, fast walkers swinging weights,
A rollerblader, someone on a call—
A hundred happy humans. No one waits
For, or is scared of, cars. The path’s for all.
There’s no pollution, noise, or stench.
The only thing this heaven needs? A bench.
Eric Colburn is a teacher at Brookline High School.