The tin can rattled and rolled
Breaking the dead silence of the night
The street child lonely strolled
Without fear, without fright

Two months ago, his parents died
He was left alone
He was helpless, but naught he cried
He lost the will to mourn

Two weeks ago, he was running
Snatching, robbing, pick-pocketting
Living in the metropolis
Without joy, without bliss

Two days ago he slumped on the floor
Crumpled like paper
Clutching his stomach
No one noticed

Two days ago a boy walked here
Kicking an empty can
Now he lay silent, unmoving
Still, no one noticed

Two hours ago someone found him
People came, from all directions
Murmuring, whispering,
Beside the boy, a lighted candle.