Around the bend

On the usual street with the usual words

Exchanged in hushed whispers

Is anyone listening?


Across the avenue

A loud sound, or two, or eleven

Exchanged from one gentleman to the next

I fear for myself


Under the bridge

The pressure of my peers

Exchanged under the palm, between fingers

Do I dare succumb?


Beyond my window

A grouping of indifference, single file

Exchanged by words held aloft

I see familiar faces

Hear familiar voices

Feel familiar feelings


Through the city

On my way to school

Exchanging hands with Sister, tightly

I don’t feel safe here