Last Gasp

Sullen overcast overcoat
scowling clouds cover sky, knee to collar
spiteful wind
mean spirited temperature
heads down people
anonymous
no greeting, and no eye contact.
The shopping mall – compulsory only
groceries
stationery
pharmacy and clothing essential,
forlorn day
discretionary spending will not be seen with.

Smoking still prevails
outlawed, outside several years ago, by statute
behind the dumpster
stringy youth –
sharp features, neck tattoo
with
thin same aged woman, Cleopatra hair and bangly wrist, reaching
inside thrift shop jacket
for cigarettes –
flicks lid open,
registers contents
confirms – last one
struck match, one draught
passes to him – shakes her head –
he can have it all.