PERSPECTIVE (Posted on June 13; Trifecta Challenge “Alley”)

Perspective  

 

Designated location on rooftop deck 

Shortcut through the alley; 

Suddenly, senses under attack  

The city’s underbelly!

Wait to exhale…

 

Walk faster, closer and closer

to the distant pinpoint of light

Emerge, gasping, from the alley!

Exhale!  Inhale!  Breathe!

Breathe in, breathe out,

Revulsion recedes

Climb worn stone steps to 4th floor Hurry! Wait! Survive – ’til day’s end.  

The alley awaits!

Will I be chosen?

Thought evolves; from alley – to ‘box’ – and back 

Nausea gives way to nostalgia; Powerlessness to pride

Responsibility! Right! Privilege!

It’s 1972 – it’s 2012: years elapse; nothing changes.

Jury Duty!