After implosion

1980,
what was once
the Baker Hotel,
now mere dust
a pile of rubble
surprisingly small
containing no art
nouveau, tuxedos
crystal chandeliers
all sold, or dead
or traveled.

Fifty years is a building's
life, said the college pres
earnest to tear down and build
anew -- he was a fool, even the Baker
lasted fifty-five years.

Most last longer;
perhaps you remember
where we stayed years later,
the red dress on the chair
not yours, not red,
greeting me in your robe
as the sign outside
blinked and blinked ...

after Katrina the Monteleone

remained

-- and you remain.