Batteries Not Included

Batteries Not Included


They sit – idle memories – languishing
crusted filth - a city’s weeping gutters.
Detritus of fast food disposal clings
to scentless bloodied thorns of tear soaked rose,
future maple trees sailing sewer bound,
adrift on a city’s polluted dreams.

Yellow lights a-swirl on oil slickened streets
highlight a scrawny stalking alley cat
sad mime back arched on a red brick facade.
Cold shush of tires on icy pavement
hissing at the joy of dancing snowflakes,
chilled chatter of recycling’s shopping carts.

Barrier reefs of soft restaurant lights
deflect the silent hardness of the night.
Wet dogs shiver in the blue cell phone light,
taut leashes battling absent owners
check for “Pee-mail” on  “Face Book” fire hydrants.

Puddles torment the feet of passersby,
tempting the feet of children and adults
dampening the spirits of the homeless.
Gutters, siphoning off a city’s soul,
seeking salvation from a moonless night
in search of a coldly distant sunrise.



12/27/2016

submitted to – Form – B – Poetry Contest

Copyright © | Year Posted 2016



Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Date: 12/28/2016 5:45:00 AM
Very dark and sinister feeling John. Loved the final lines in this, they really closed this out nicely
Login to Reply
Lawless Avatar
John Lawless
Date: 12/28/2016 9:33:00 AM
thanks Chris, I find that the city and nature both have "two faces" one that shines in the daylight and one that lurks in the darkness.
Get a Premium Membership
Get more exposure for your poetry and more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Radiant Verses: A Journey Through Inspiring Poetry

Hide Ad