Most Of The Time

People come to Yingge

for the pottery

and the ceramics.

Known in Taiwan as a center for both, kilns have fired here for more than a century.

Most people visit Old Street

where it’s on full display.

Sometimes Pa and I go where the people go, to see what interests them,

what feels good in their hands,

and what they might take home.

But most of the time, we prefer out of the way shops

and the Thin Places.

To get a haircut,

and meet someone new.

We prefer where the locals dine,

and to stand in line,

to see what they like,

and order the same.

We prefer those who put things in order

and tidy up.

Those who pack up for the day,

and prepare for the next.

We prefer friends,

fathers and sons,

and families.

Those who chill out,

even when they ignore us.

And come evening, we prefer the rooftop garden

at Fish Hostel.