A NOTORIOUS PLACE

that bar on the corner 
previously closed by the law for a period 
of 2 ½ months then reopened two weeks ago 
closed once again for reasons not known to me 
i could tell that there was something different 
about the place because it was darker than 
usual
i look up and see the neon signs off

out of commission
the bar flies, the bar prostitutes, and students 
wanting to really lay one on have got to find 
some other place to go

telephones usually used for illicit purposes 
now dormant
not a soul in sight around the place/ 
just as well, i think to myself, it's fine 
with me
that place has a reputation the length of 
both of my arms
and with nobody there, there is no potential for any 
trouble or inconvenience on the sidewalk outside

what happened to the place now to accord us another 
respite of peace, tranquility, and general 
well being?

better not to ask
it dill only make for a sordid story 
but you'll probably somehow find out

but for now the environment is clear 
and for a man of sobriety such as myself 
all's quiet on the western front, 
literally ...