Rooftop

On a cool summers eve on the outskirts of Hamburg

three teens were out and about

they were on a mission, with a clear goal and vision

they arrived at the Parkhaus, nestled between closed cafes and brown apartment buildings. they met each other’s eyes and went inside

first step: find the stairway

without much fuss they found it and ascended

slowly at first but not for much longer, as the excitement sped them along

up they went the poorly lit stairway, until they reached light.

the timing was marvelous, a half hour before sunset

enough time to begin preparations. a phone and speaker came out, and cigarettes were lit.

they chatted idely until the sunset stole their attention. the music was paused and all cigarettes were stubbed.

this sunset began with intense hues of orange and yellow, quickly giving way to the sky’s familiar blue and pink pastels.

the vastness of the world became sudden and formidable.

the sunset offered many things that evening — it parted hope and love on that rooftop.

the pastels gave way to night; the mood shifted.

bewonderment turned to solemnness.

emersed in smoke, they watched the city lights come on

the warmth of good company held them gently

to sit and relish the night safely was a gift,

they savoured it sweetly with passing time.