I walk the same streets,
looking for character and finding
irregular families and those alone who
mark their trails with institutional voices.
This would be a good place to get depressed,
that is if it weren't already in the air,
New attendees think that a quaint spirit is
somehow in the coffee, in the movie theater, or in
what passes for a bookstore.
The motorcycle gang eats sushi before
polishing their leather,
they attend sessions in the county medical clinic.
Just like I said, they smile at you and try to pretend
their machines aren't too loud, or too blinding.
Come walk with me,
we are sure to see a child who is delighted to be
hiding under a tree.
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