invisible
yet possibly deadly
it empties streets
makes us quarantine
cities regions nations
hits us unprepared
reminds us that pandemics
can also happen in our time
a few days ago I walked downtown
a strange quietness filled the air
made me react to noises and sounds
I had not even noticed
when streets were full with people and cars
even the wail of distant ambulance sirens
sounded louder and more ominous
I only saw occasional joggers
a few women airing their pet dogs
more bicycled food deliveries than usual
they hardly acknowledged my existence
glances did not meet
my friendly nods were rarely returned
we have all become solitary strangers
keeping their safe distance
pandemic quietness emptiness distance strangers