...on Claremont urban hub...

I stand and watch as people pass me by

Unknowing as this place controls, confines.

Are there those who can in strength defy?

I feel your weariness, I breathe your sigh;

The drudgery groans and grates and grinds;

I keep my watch as now you pass me by.

I catch excitement glinting in your eye;

Some vibrant venture's voice your life defines –

And yet, I guess, your strength cannot defy

These forces that allow for no reply.

Worker, owner, client: each resigns

Their will; and watch as people pass them by,

Their value measured by how much they buy.

I scent alluring lies, their lustrous lines

Embalming those who could in strength defy.

Beyond the gilt I sense the silent cry,

But living grace sets free where image binds;

I, hopeful, watch as people pass me by,

There are those who can by stealth defy.

2007, Villanelle