Tethered to a corner street

My back against the point

Blinders keep the past from thought

 

They hide the self-created refuse

The crumbling gravel

The festering wildlife

 

Yet, pristine streets lay in front

I see glimmering lights

I hear laughter

I feel happiness

 

Not next to me

Not within myself

But close enough to reach, to taste

 

The rough tether on my waist holds me

A frayed thing, worn by invisible hands

Two knots lead behind

 

The tether tightens

I see darkness

I hear silence

I feel nothing

 

I taste desperation

I hear footsteps

I feel the rough earth

 

With each step the earth is smoother

Closer and closer

The light is brighter

 

I see colors

I hear music

I feel everything

The rope frays