This City Speaks

Faces void all passing by
open eyed yet emptied 
like flashes of a vacancy sign
blank stares like orphans pitied

Caught in time
no plans to sketch
just colored pencils 
with broken tips

Only the artist's see
painting joy on canvas 
as if an apology 
for selling a feeling - to what the living should be free

This city speaks of sunsets passed
and lakes that serve as portraits hung
rush for a weekdays check to cash
while natures gift remains outrun

For me I'd rather fish the sea
a humbled walk along the beach
fall upon a stack of leaves
but freeways and buildings my peace has breached 

In love with a life of simple pleasures
unhurried by the next place to go
where hospitality is still the measure
not a life that's put on like a show

Where did all the soft eyes go
the patriots passion the pride
when did this world spin out of control
and kindness become something to hide?

To each his own the saying goes
but what of love thy neighbor?
When abnegation is no longer chose
it's no wonder isolation be favored
Copyright © | Year Posted 2014

Poem

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

Mcdaid Avatar
October 5, 2014 at 10:16 AM
this piece sure speaks all by itself very beautifully painted piece excellent pen
Corbin Avatar
September 25, 2014 at 12:47 PM
Right there with you, sweetheart. I was talking to someone the other day about how many simple things have become unfashionable. You are so eloquent.
Lindley Avatar
September 25, 2014 at 9:09 AM
A very deep and questioning write my friend.. I prefer solitude to that of mixing with strangers but see and acknowledge the tribulations of my fellow man. I do my part but do not announce it publicly. You have a poet's caring heart my friend. Just be careful it does not get crushed by the weight of the world! Another 7 rating for this fine write..
Virden Avatar
September 25, 2014 at 12:24 PM
honored. Never doubted your integrity for a second. From thought to pen, poets make the sweetest friends. hope your day is wonderful Robert!
Lamoureux Avatar
September 25, 2014 at 8:15 AM
Although I love nature and solitude I am also attracted to the rhythms of the city. I enjoyed this piece Sarai.
Virden Avatar
September 25, 2014 at 12:19 PM
I can see that in you. And yet with a heart as deep as yours, i would dare say you could transform pure noise into a poetic cadence.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace