Dump

Amanda Darza

Spark, ephemeral flame, ember,
Drag, inhale in between parted lips,
Heel on pavement never to linger
Stride, glide, smooth swaying hips.
Your eyes focus intently secure on
Cracks, crevices, a chicken wing: trash,
Leaves, moss, milk, and white plastic bags,
As if living creatures on a busy street crash,
Only for a moment, until another zigzag.

The weary people sitting remain in a mantle
Of smoke and malodorous air
Crisp and warm, looking bestial
A common conclusion, quick, heels on pavement.
Its former officious state depreciates,
Left now, a big blue freight.