.

Ten Floors

I stepped into our building’s entranceway.
It was aglow from bright sunshine that day.
With friends she walked inside as I got there,
So beautiful I had to stop and stare.

Without a chance to speak, my next resort
Was get the building manager’s report!
Thus armed, I neared her door, in hopes of talking,
Until I figured that might look like stalking.

The next day I stepped in our elevator,
And there she was—no shock could have been greater!
Alone, I had ten floors to make a pitch,
But thankfully fast talking was my niche.

I can’t recall a single word I said,
Or even what was dancing through my head,
But she was forced to listen, thus confined,
And I was stunned to sense she didn’t mind.

Then to her train, I walked her all the way.
The journey with my wife began that day.

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Russel Winick recently started writing poetry after ending a long legal career. He resides in Naperville, Illinois

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18 Responses

  1. Roy Eugene Peterson

    Russel, how fascinating are such great stories of love and romance wherein one discovers another by happenstance. Being alone for ten floors with her regardless of whatever you said must have been magic straight out of your head. How wonderful and captivating are such love stories and poems. This one touched my imagination and heart.

    Reply
    • Russel Winick

      Thank you, Sir, for your characteristically lovely comment. They are always greatly appreciated!

      Reply
  2. Cynthia L Erlandson

    What a sweet love story that led to marriage! It is an amusing poem, too, especially that you were talking without knowing what you were saying (at least not enough to remember what you said!) The situation reminds me a bit of Frank Sinatra’s “Strangers in the Night”.

    Reply
    • Russel Winick

      I’m delighted to hear that — thanks for your kindness in letting me know!

      Reply
  4. Margaret Coats

    I remember some 19th century stories in which time spent in a coach or carriage was meaningful. But for that situation, fast talking did not help. It was a matter of making the hours pass pleasantly–and getting out with some plan to meet again. You may have assured that, Russel, by walking all the way to the train!

    Reply
    • Russel Winick

      Thanks Margaret, maybe you’re right! I was at that point ready to meet “The One,” and start towards a family. Like many folks, I dreamed of having kids who were kind and bright, but because of my own background, I hoped they’d be athletic as well. She had come here from Shanghai, China. When I asked what she had done in China, she replied “professional basketball player.” I said one of my best prayers of thanks right then and there!

      Reply
  5. Rohini

    That is such a sweet poem with a delightfully lilting air. I haven’t visited the SCP Poetry page for some days so it was a joyful thing to read this morning. Thank you

    Reply
  7. Russel Winick

    Well, thank you so much Scharlie — I’m quite honored by your kind feedback!

    Reply
  8. Jeff Eardley

    Russel, what a lovely poem with a fabulous punchline at the end. A great love story that is a joy to read.

    Reply
    • Russel Winick

      Thank you Jeff, for your kind words. I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the poem.

      Reply
  9. Susan Jarvis Bryant

    Russel, it’s a beautiful surprise to see this romantic side to your work. I can feel the wonder of love swelling between the lines and that joyous warmth is contagious. I’m basking in the glow. May you and your wife have many more glorious years together.

    Reply
  10. Adam Sedia

    A touching story — one worthy of poetry. You give us a dramatic scene without dialogue, rushing inward thoughts and outward action — an apt description of a love-struck young man.

    Reply
    • Russel Winick

      Thank you Adam. Yep, that’s how it was 39 years ago. And in many ways still is. Thanks for your analysis.

      Reply

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