Standing at the jukebox and there are three renditions of Vernon Duke’s Autumn in New York.

One done by Oscar Peterson. Another played by Bill Charlap. And a third selection by Bill Evans Trio, including Scott LaFaro on bass and Paul Motian playing drums. I take a sip of whiskey and decide to go with Bill Evans. I place my last quarter in the record machine and watch the 45 start to spin. I think of you.

We used to sit in Washington Square Park eating popcorn and feeding pigeons. Leaves of rust, yellow, gold, and red. You placed your cheek on my chest. Blonde hair surfing an overcoat.

That was years ago when we were young and poor. Hungry for new experiences.  The only thing that changed was you.

And I held a transistor radio in my hand. Listening to WKCR. Listening to Autumn in New York by Bill Evans. Squirrels danced slowly. Couples walked by. Smiled. We laughed.

I sit here drinking whiskey. Remembering. I’m stuck in remembering. Autumn in New York.