The Sentient Bean (Poem & Commentary)

The Sentient Bean
by John Trent


It's another wonderful day to be alive. Summer is quickly approaching this sleepy coastal town. Instead of assuming my usual spot on the back porch, I headed out early to one of Savannah's most eclectic coffee shops for the morning to read, write, and observe. I joined the ranks of dedicated coffee drinkers, so I could absorb 'The Vibe' of this new age beatnik hangout.

For some reason, I have yet to undertand the comfortable and relaxing feeling that embraces my being while in a coffee shop. Maybe it's the smells, the hiss of espresso machines, sounds of cool jazz in the background, or, maybe, it's the feeling of anonymity amongst the group of regulars. In essence, its like being a third person observer on a vacation of the mind or in some cases, a human safari! It's wonderful.

So, I hope you enjoy this piece. I wrote this after a two hour sit at 'The Sentient Bean'. If you ever come to Savannah, you should put this colorful and eclectic spot on your calendar. I'm certain you'll enjoy yourself.

I wish each of you a joyous Easter and a safe holiday, John

The Sentient Bean

The faceless come and the faceless go
While the eclectic gather at this hidden shop
Tattooed and pierced, long hair and short
The Stone’s fade in as they sip and talk

Burnt red walls and cracked cement floors
Old tables and chairs, tattered and scarred
Brushed Oils hang with black and whites below
And Guitar Bob strums from his favorite spot

The grinder whirrs, enveloping the room
The chatter drowned by the rattle of beans
Conversations return as it abruptly ends
And Sinatra sings “My Way” lightly overhead

The aroma of fresh coffee, so earthly and bold,
Drifts and dances with it's comforting embrace
Some smile and laugh, others read and write
Some stare through time, others into their cup

Young lovers stare, locked hands on the table
A proud granny smiles at her baby's new girl
With a boiling hiss and a small plume of steam
The music plays on at ‘The Sentient Bean'


*The Sentient Bean is a locally owned coffee shop that sponsors the arts and has an open mike night for poetry every month.