Stone Step

I am the 9th step on the Via Carlotta 500 years of feet Have hollowed my stoney spine I sag, I crack Under the onerous weight Of Hunchback Time. Hurriers clatter staccato soles along me I am the 9th click-clack Of wellington, slipper, clog My cold stone cools The small hot feet of children In winter, I am ice My sides are curved with snow With a crumbling smile I am the 9th step on the Via Carlotta I know my place Keeper of cools Of dust Nurturer of shade I am a servant in the ladder of motion In the scheme of things The lowest unpaid maid.