Fall in a parking lot

The truck rolls past, blaring music
as the quiet man inside sits very still.
A woman edges her car slowly
out of a parking lot seemingly intent
on escape despite her trappings.
Moving pictures, sleepy spirits.

Success is a ridiculous word
when measured against the business
of deciduous trees in autumn.

The afternoon is a shuddering breath
after a gutless morning
pushed mercy as far away as it could.

Prayers are rising amid the notifications
pulsing from devices everywhere,
making it a crowded atmosphere.
It’s like breathing in graffiti.