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
