Commuting
Packed evening bus bruised
sky darkens, orange glow
inside, grey folk relax
into electronic worlds
homebound
workers slough off
burdened skin.
A boy kicks kicks kicks
the seat in front kick
kick bang bang
kicking kick bang thump.
Hard wired to the universe
he nods to invisible tunes
neon trainers tattoo
upholstery.
He’s coiled, ready
eyes gleam at tightening
jaws suppressed sighs
of curled-haired snug smug
buttoned women
lost in ebook fantasy.
Then he’s up
& OFF.
On the pavement he grins
flashes perfect
teeth
waves cheery
farewell.
