Gradually, the setting sun changed the colors of the Parthenon
its marble changing from ancient gold to glorious gold
the softness of its edges made smooth by time,
by air, wind, fire -- acid rain, smog, and climbing tourists.
Still, on the plaka the busy people continued selling trinkets
laughing with and at themselves and especially at visitors.
Some spoke to others into cell phones, "Don't worry, I know."
One shopkeeper quarreled with me, "No photos. Go away."
A shopkeeper's daughter pointed to her father's jewelry,
sparkling diamonds and gold on display, "The artists thread
the gold and then weave it into this necklace," she said.
"This is cool stuff here." She sounded mainstream American.
Near the church a plump woman in a red dress folded a silk
tablecloth. "Buy it," she said, and then shoved it in my arms.
"My husband dead. My children small," she told me,
her Greek brow furrowed, turning toward the setting sun.
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| Selling on the Plaka, Athens, 2008. Nikon D2xs, f7.6, 1/250, 100 ISO, 200mm. |
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