Night after I Sing
downtown
people
mull sidewalks
down the one-way
police in pursuit
lights flash
life’s measures play out
I play the radio
as I drive
and switch stations
to find some pain
never goes away
my pain
about a friend lost
and months of promise
gone
a lady sings
a love song
on the radio
her wistful voice
cuts into the night
memories I savor
bright lights
the bartender
a stiff drink
and a brush of hands
friends sit at the table
with me
I sing
they applaud
a heartfelt hug
and desire
but I find myself alone
after stepping out the door
sometimes I say
it’s better this way
sometimes I wonder
why it has to be
a man in front of the library
sleeps in shadows
the world turns
the stars and moon hide
in sullen skies
somewhere a plaintive cry
a dog’s harsh bark
left outside
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