Vendor’s Hustle
I spot you every morning
corner of 47th and 9th
bare brown shoulders
bowed forward pushing
your laden cart
over your nose Ray Bans tipped
dusty face and arms
dusty like the sidewalk
sidewalk hot and steamy
waft of Paco Robanne
a burst of humanity
Your livelihood this street
its oppressive heat
You entice with whispers
One-dollar bags, lady
Come this way
Have a look
Vendor’s hustle
Some of you ready to run
On the lookout for police
I wuz lucky you say
Escaping from crack
Some things I know,
wish I never knew
It’s New York
No time to talk
Time is gold
Up at 4 am to be ready
Scarfs hats bags
Step up to the table
Hello ladies
Vendor’s hustle
