Buttoned to the Wrists

by Sarina LaBold

Midnight shades swirl up his neck,

inked tales of brotherhood.

A single scar across one eye

red and inflamed.

Silver studs of rebellion

on his ear and right eyebrow.

A wild eye and baggy jeans,

brass knuckles on his boxers.

Swaggering through the alley,

he hollers to his gang brother

then spits a wad onto the sidewalk

and curses the corner beggar.

With one swift jerk he kicks the mutt

that’s biting at his ankles.

With a yip it bolts, dodging trashcans,

then slows to a limping trot.

Now with a briefcase and geometric tie,

black polished shoes and white smile.

Daily a Jackson to the homeless man

instead of a black eye,

and a walk with the white dog

who led him from crime.