Sirens Scream and Halt

She can’t escape the abuse

Morning breaks With the spray of shattered glass. Windshields yield To pavements and streets Making the ground jewel With morning hue.

Again the sirens begin, Curdling the air with scream. But no, is it something different today? Impatient tires, Cats in heat?

My ears cringe Eyes cower to the sidewalk, Sweeping cracks and trash To blur stray stares.

As she streaks by howling, Her boyfriend in close pursuit. Her life is catching up to her.

He swings, Chopping air, And swings again, Delivering the blow.

Sirens scream. Sirens scream and halt.

This is an excerpt from my book, Trespassing Stoplights and Attitudes, published through Mudborn Press in 1980. Artwork done by Nevin Berger.

Here is a link to the book.