I can’t decide whether
Or not I’m right or wrong

Maybe steer both ways
Somehow or stay still

Mother screams at me
For protecting

The people
I don’t know

Because I believe
In cherishing

The front covers
Of beings

Ignoring
The inner darkness

That some coats
Contain

But I can smell it
If they step close enough

If they open their mouths
Wider than before

The lips form
The ***** offense

Periods
Commas
And question marks

Chins with
Layers of fuzz
That bounce up and down

That *****
And tickle a pink cheek

Chapped lips
Peeled white skin
Flakes of flesh


Bleeding gums
Plaque in corners
Possible cavities

Torn jeans and label brands
Holes in shirts and kitchen stains

Glossy lipstick
Cheap perfume
And a getaway attitude

Talking in bathrooms
White walls
Stained sinks

Library tables
Toppled water bottles
And ripped labels

Good riddance
Old coats