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unhinged
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people can't hide the abuse in their eyes
and the lips crumble slightly at the corners
in compassionate pity
because such things are easily recognizable
and then i moved into the heart of the midwest
where everyone wears armor
the eyes cold and hard
the lips set in a defensive line
eyes looking but not really seeing
separate bubbles of misery that deflect each other
like shields out of some science fiction story
it was cold living there
but i don't want to live
where i'm from anymore
giving and receiving the pity
people have around here
is draining
the last time i was in milwaukee i was waiting for the 30 at prospect and north ave and a lady came up to me asked me for a cigarette. 'i was afraid to ask you because i thought you would say no. but i'm having a really bad day.' she looked a little strung out on something and on the eastside people were particularly cold and callous especially to people who appeared like her. i made sure to smile. i remember being upset that day; and after living there it was easier to throw up walls. maybe she didn't want my pity, but i could smile and give her a cigarette.
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