THE SHOE MISSION

My wife tried on her twelfth pair of boots. The salesman,
White-haired, chubby, spoke a spotted English. His wares
Were cheap and plentiful. On the back wall, posters
Promoting the Palestinian intifada.
His mother lives in Ramallah, calls him twice a
Month. He left thirty years ago. Helena passed
On the purchase. He shrugged, too Brazilian to care.


corumba 23.09.04