The diseased docks fell
into disuse
over the decades
of grime and crime.
Still, the pigeons peck and
coo back and forth
in the dark places
like lonesome doves.
The flea-bitten cats with manicures
prowl about nights
singing gutterally
to penniless patrons.
The fly-bitten dogs with choke collars
pander about pensively
looking for a meal
to chase.
Back in those days,
the birds ate like kings,
the cats enjoyed the rats,
and the dogs were strangely petted.
It was a glorious carnival,
with plays and rides,
the constant chatter,
and the occasional childish shriek.
The popular places to hang out were
the cotton-candy booth,
the giddy merry-go-round,
and the black leather hot-dog stand.
Advertisements
