There has to be fog in Limehouse
soft as whispers
trailing grayness
misting storefront windows
where old men sit at tables
still as crickets
when the mating season’s passed.
There have to be mirrors in Limehouse
above unnumbered doorways
so that restless evil spirits
drift unknowing by.
There must be a woman in Limehouse
gazing at a dresser top
where there’s an unlit lamp…
pink shade…red fringe.
She considers implications
of a single fortune cookie
broken…empty…flavorless
upon a thin white saucer.
Bonnie Marshall
Artwork by Richard Diebenkorn
Proem... 
I love how the first lines completely draw you in. There must be fog in Limehouse, soft as whispers, trailing greyness. I can feel myself slipping through seeing what you are describing.
I’m pleased, Susan, that it connects with you, and very grateful for the time and thought of your reply.
Sounds like a knock shop but that probably says more about me than you.
Well, now that I think about it, your insight adds meaning to it I didn’t intend…but it does work. Thanks.
Chinatowns in any city add up to some of my favorite memories but I’m only soaking up the atmosphere as I walk along the streets. You’ve taken me into those doorways I’ve always desired entrance into…thanks!
The “Limehouse Blues” melody is wistful and on occasion drifts to my mind. I’m pleased you found maxadaland…and hopefully more doorways.
A heartbroken, desert moment ….
Reblogged this on Sea-girt Ithaca and commented:
These moments, too, must be remembered … before forgotten:
Beautiful, and yet so simple. I love this poem.
Your generous comment is meaningful for me and I thank you for it. Smiles.
Bonnie, really a first rate poem. >KB
Thank you so much, KB. I’ve had a long fascination with the Limehouse setting.
Reblogged this on Cristian Mihai.
Reblogged this on ugiridharaprasad.
This poem ignited me to think of the possibilities of the world, I am often pessimistic and negative.
Ah, then…it’s all good. And thank you. Smiles.
Thank you for this poem. It has beauty and depth. I’ll be back to read more. :~)
I’m pleased you think so…and appreciate the favor of your comment. Smile.
I liked and enjoyed it, but, (good God don’t you hate the word “but”) I am left wondering what the limehouse is.
Well, it’s a harbor area in England, and sailors named it…I believe. Thank you. Smile. And…yes, I agree.
I absolutely love this
Know I do appreciate your kind response…very much.
This was even better on a second read. Wow! I love this poem.
Your comment is very meaningful to me. Must admit, it’s one of my favorites. Smile
I was born very close to Limehouse in East London. I didn’t recognize it from your description, but you drew me in to your Limehouse so now it’s mine too.
Power of imagination, Malcolm. All good.