a set of steak knives

the gas station

across the street with

cans

of oil

stacked into pyramid

shapes

sold gas

for 29 cents per gallon

in 1968.

the man,

in a clean white suit,

would come out with

a rag

to clean the windshield,

check the oil

and wipers,

and pump the fuel

for you.

a fill up got you a dish

or two.

a tea cup,

or a set of knives.

and a road map of maryland

if you wanted one

to peruse.