ANNA RUSS'S TRIP

In the underground
and overpass
you left cases
on right platforms
by the airport
though you wished
to take
a taxi
to avoid crowds
in the subway
but there is no cab
at midnight
in this strange country
chosen for your vacation
here you are
with two hairy guys
in the back of the bus
insisting on hearing rap
with their feet up
who will not stop
joking about politics
sports cars and narcotics
not to be late
you choose
to end the conversation
by giving out a vodka
you find under the seat
angry at the travel agent
who told you
to go somewhere exotic.