A bright yellow taxi and a faded black dress

I first published this in 2002. Not all my stories are as depressing as last night's and tonights!

I guess you're wondering why I'm looking at you,
No, it's not that you're a stranger,
I'm a stranger in this bar myself
It's just that you kinda look the way I feel.

Don't worry Mister, I'm not gonna hit you for a drink,
Don't want your money either, nor your cigarettes
Guess I don't really know what I want,
Then again, maybe I do.

You like my black dress?
Should have seen it when it was new.
Looks a bit tired and jaded now
And out of place on this bar stool
Then again, maybe it doesn't.

Hasn't always been this way.
Things happen, but I guess you know that too huh?
I read you know, bet that surprises you doesn't it?
Kafka, Sartre, Camus, I've read them all,
But it's the label on the bottle that makes most sense tonight.

But you don't want to hear this right?
Got your own problems I know.
I don't want anything from you Mister,
You don't want anything from me.
Kind of sad isn't it.
Not wanting.
Just hoping.

No, don't. It's kind of you I know,
But I've had enough and I'm tired.
Been nice talking to you Mister,
I hope things work out well for you too.
I really do.

Me? Not far, just a few blocks.
I'll walk, I need the air.
Well all right, if that's what you want
A bright yellow taxi
And a faded black dress.

Coming in Mister?
OK, Bill then, nice name.
Mine? doesn't really matter
Call me what pleases you.
Mary, Joanne - it's all the same.

Yeah, those are photos of me
Do yesterdays bother you?
Do you prefer today?
I can put the photos in the drawer,
But I can't hide history.

Take a seat, I'll fix us a drink.
Want some music?
Know what I like 'bout you?
I like your hands
Big and strong

Guessed you did something like that,
Not the hands of a pen pusher.
Nor the arms.
Do you? I kinda knew you would somehow
This black dress always did show it off nicely.
Bit faded I know
But so are so many things

Never been asked that before?
Guess it must seem kinda strange to you
Not gentle Mister, not like a lady
Like me in a faded black dress.

Hurt? I'm sorry for laughing,
You see, the pain takes away the hurt,
So comfort me once more
Then say good bye

For tonight is tonight,
And tomorrow's another day.
Your tomorrow rides in a bright yellow taxi
Mine, in a faded black dress.