What business of mine is it

what you do with the coin

I give you, when guilt or largesse,

or some combination of both,

guides my almost clean hand

from my pocket

to your deteriorating cup?

 

So what if you buy alcohol

instead of food, cigarettes

instead of clothes, harder drugs

instead of a temporary roof?

Is my charity dependent upon

whatever you choose to do

to make it through

another day of an unstable world,

depending on the kindness

of the few who, below

the surface of their shining veneers,

understand how truly un-different they are

from you?

 

About the Author:

Edward Lee’s poetry, short stories, non-fiction and photography have been published in magazines in Ireland, England and America, including The Stinging Fly, Skylight 47, Acumen and Smiths Knoll.  His debut poetry collection “Playing Poohsticks On Ha’Penny Bridge” was published in 2010. He is currently working towards a second collection.

He also makes musical noise under the names Ayahuasca Collective, Lewis Milne, Orson Carroll, Blinded Architect, Lego Figures Fighting, and Pale Blond Boy.

His blog/website can be found at https://edwardmlee.wordpress.com