A Man with One Shoe
Lying rooted in the shade
of inner-city
oaks
Burled trunks melting over
the collapsing
curb
His suitcase an abandoned
grocery
bag
Containing a half-life with
no return
receipts
Somnolent face turned
towards
traffic
Outstretched arm
languishing
in weeds
Palm upturned
in abject
supplication
I recall my past dirt naps
as the stoplight
turns green
2 thoughts on "A Man with One Shoe"
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Jenny – A sad reflection on street life. So many things going on here – Love the form you use. Love the idea of nature overtaking man’s progress (“Burled trunks melting over/the collapsing/curb). Love how the last stanza weaves your history into his. I’m glad you noticed him. We get so caught up in life, we tend to neglect homeless. About a month ago there was a ceremony in front of the library honoring fallen police. Many of the police and people were a bit dressy. Just a few yards away, two people were sleeping on the sidewalk. Startling image. I’m really glad you have joined up for this month!
I’m glad too!
Nothing gives perspective on homelessness like going through it personally.