The Signs

The Signs Exiled in old age to the passenger seat, he can't stop reading aloud the passing signs, Resi Area 2 Miles, Exit Only, Boiled Peanuts, as if his hushed repetitions could forestall the disintegration of speech from his mind, Estate Sale, Speed Limit 35, Parkway Ahead, as if he were new to this place and its words, like a marveling tourist practicing the language, Turn Lights On, Mount Pisgah, No Vacancy, or that man in that garden in that black book naming the paradise he'll be leaving before long. —Michael McFee 36 ...