Palimpsest, Urban

Sidewalk sprouted more
candles bouquets foil heart balloons,
swallowed a child whole
into its undercarriage.

Its breath copper alchemy and
lead, ruptured promises,
knee’s leaps over
cracked back superstitions.

On a corner you can app map
a reroute real simple.
Bend wheels round
less troubled avenues.

Ancient streets bear the same
names as new paved ones.
New paved ones leave out
eye sores, promise you gladness.