Take me back, please
from whence I came
to the land between the parks
where the cheap chinese flows free
(except for Monday, the day of rest)
and the all-you-can-eat vegetarian buffet
has lost its way because there were too few takers.

Return me to the locale of many Mexican restaurants
but none satisfying to the gringo who knows nothing
of the authentic fare.
Bring me home to the place where cabs roam free
and right turns are delayed
and the police roam freely but seem to allow
the community inside the station.

Send me to a city where I recognize the occasional tree
on the occasional sidewalk,
where brownstones mingle with elevator prewar structures,
where avenues have existing bike lanes
but not yet lights to support them.

Take me to that special place, please.
If it happens quick,
there may be a tip for you.