For Rusty

Drop me off.
in your wheezing car.
Near the syringe field.

Stand me hunched,
with the winos.
Who drink sherry,
with their salad days.

Come back later.
With a spade.
before the frost,
the traffic.

Wear a scarf.
A hat at a rakish angle.
Work hard,
bury me.
Deep.

Let the rain pour.
The sun sweat.
Swallowing the city,
as it wakes.

Only then can I grow.
Tall enough to run,
to you.
Brand new.

Then you can cut me down again.