Sitting in the twilight glow
Watching a one-way flow
Of birds and humanity
I see a row
Of dwellings
Put together somehow
By those who barely manage to survive
Like the very homes they build
Unlike my house
A badge that I wear
Like the rest of my privileges
My armour, my talisman
Guarding me against those
I watch go by
Wishing they would be swallowed
By the night
So I could feel secure
Yet materialize as if from nowhere
To do my bidding at dawn
Polish my possessions
That I may go about acquiring more….
As night dematerializes the slum
My world is bathed in fluorescence
Harsh light that I hope will bring warmth
To the emptiness
Even the glass of beer
Brings no cheer