A Matter of Sugar and Steel

Moving along the avenue, I surveyed an outdoor café where an unoccupied wrought-iron table presented an intolerable oversight. A customer had left behind a stainless-steel sugar canister and a small porcelain saucer, resting in haphazard proximity. Ascending the metal chair to inspect the layout, I noted how the saucer sat askew, its edge overlapping a paper menu. Stepping onto the cool slate tabletop, I planted my boots firmly against the slate and braced one gloved hand against the saucer's porcelain rim. With a measured, firm shove, I guided it precisely two inches rightward, framing the sugar dispenser in flawless symmetry. Harmony governs the afternoon.