The collector meticulously cleaned the grooves,

Gently prodded the needle as 

Mothers nudge their children, 

run along, now.

Urging something glorious

To be revealed, hidden beneath

The dust and long forgotten.

His record rose and fell as the tide,

Hypnotizing him while he strained

To feel that first note.

the empty crackle of a vinyl fire.

Without warning, distorted noise crescendoed,

Smoothed the wrinkles,

Became familiar. 

melodies eddied to and fro.

The collector savored every second, 

Frailly attempted to maintain control, 

Reveled in the assurance until 

click.

the dust settled once more.