The Canals of Venice

I got lost in Venice

Walking along the canals

in the Tintoretto light.

The throngs at San Marco push me away.

I am sinking,

intimidated by the weight of a heavy world.

I never find my hotel.

It finds me.

Each time its location altered

on the map.

I got lost in Venice

Walking along the canals

Under bridges of gilded mold.

The ghosts of the Lombardi laugh at me,

My dreams unrealized.

I buy a mask at a tiny shop

And hide.

The piazza's pulse draws me to its center.

But I never do find Venice

Until I leave.

                                    Marea Dotz