the performer stretches
his palm
out
in the sweet
spot
of the outdoor stage
he holds
until/while the
passer-by's
gather
in
they are
leaning forwards
just
past
their tipping points
they are shuffling
in
as the traffic band
narrows
they are
within earshot
of a strategic
whisper

when the performers
palm
drops
they will not
be sure
what
they heard
until the next time
they open
a strange cupboard
and reach
in
for a simple
glass tumbler

palm forward
hesitant pause
the inherent
pleasure
of an
uncomplicated gesture