Standing camouflaged In the shadow, Back pressed against The wall Like a masked Cat burglar, Is the coward, Sneaking, Never present Until gone; Prowling, Like sleep, In playgrounds and hospitals, Airports and backyard pool; Or by knives, decrees, Enemies or envy, Even by longevity Or in explosive proximity. Cheeks drain. Eyes pool At the moment of recognition, When the sneak thief Is present, He's gone.