between two cities

the 5 is faster, true
and i’ll take it, tonight
but it is so flat
and boring
and makes
lone driving
so sleepy

i’d rather take
the 101
with its hills
and twists and turns

but the risk
of AM traffic
and another hour
of driving
are not worth it
to me, tonight

so, dear 5
tonight,
please
be kind
and keep me
lively.