Manila After Dark

Night sparks open as the city stirs
Carts roll in with clattering metal and whirs

Charcoal pops where the isaw turns
Smoke drawing ribbons as the skewer burns

Kwek-kwek stacked like tiny setting suns
Crisp shells waiting for the rush of hungry ones

Fish balls jitter in their bubbling bath
Vendors calling routes like a seasoned craft

Balut passed warmly like a whispered trust
Salt and broth rising through the evening dust

Every corner alive bold and bright
Manila seasons life bite after bite
Copyright © | Year Posted 2025

Poem

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Goldsmith Avatar
December 20, 2025 at 11:18 AM
I enjoyed reading your wonderful "Manila After Dark" write. I have never been there. I wish you would write more. Have a lovely day writing away............
Delegans Avatar
December 24, 2025 at 1:53 PM
It definitely captured my heart. Thanks for taking time to read and share your comment, Paula.
Etgen-Baker Avatar
December 14, 2025 at 5:30 PM
you made the place come alive--good sensory detail
Delegans Avatar
December 20, 2025 at 10:44 AM
It's a lively place for sure. Thanks for reading and commenting, Sara!
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