solid, i sit here
rooted and caged,
waiting for you to shop me,
run your hands along my surfaces:
this smooth skin,
these wide hips,
my frame,
my box to comfort you,
eager for business,
if somewhat ancient, dusty and
unaccustomed to the company.

i know these goods are pricey;
the trade is dangerous and foul.
i ask you to put it all on the line,
your name, and yeah,
maybe even your soul.
but shit,
you can get this so much cheaper
if you just shop around.

what goes unsaid,
we both know,
the higher quality is out there
if you look a little further.
fresher, cleaner, better,
you can get the sleeker package
you dream of,
and you can get it at a better price.

here i sit so solid,
24-7,
no lock for the door.
cheap neon signs,
screaming red lipstick posters,
beg you,
just you,
to stop here,
to shop my overpriced wares.
is it today,
is it ever,
you won't drive by,
that you will find
you're willing to shop
this convenience store?

1997wnn