Out in The World - Nov 23 2022

 

Out in The World

Nov 23 2022

The solitary diner

sits at a small round table

that looks like an after-thought,

a spot by the swinging door

close enough to catch the breeze

of waiters whisking in and out

balancing trays.

He eats alone.

Ignores the buzz

of overlapping conversation,

couples happily chatting,

and the effervescent laughter

that randomly bubbles up.

The easy-listening jazz

playing in the background

softens the hubbub

and matches his manner well.

And if anyone glances his way

he refrains from looking back.

Today's paper

is unfolded before him.

His phone is put away.

The waiters' comings and goings

seem not at all distracting.

If he's self-conscious

he doesn't show it.

So, is he anti-social,

broken-hearted,

a salesman on the road?

Should we be feeling sorry

for a bored traveller,

a jilted lover,

a man in mourning?

Or concerned?

Because we're made nervous by loners;

surely something's wrong with them.

He eats slowly and methodically

and lingers over the sports,

then leaves a generous tip

and quietly departs.

None of my business, I think,

curious about his story

but reproaching myself

for having watched.

After all, I often dine alone,

standing by the kitchen sink

eating something reheated

or straight from the fridge.

The big difference

between him and me

is I do it unseen.

I should admire his composure

instead of feeling sorry.

A man, sure enough of himself

to risk exposure

before all those prying eyes;

out in the world

dining alone.