The quiet is
palpable
the rhythmic clicking
of the clock
as the second hand
skips
around the block
the only sound
until
the refrigerator generator
chimes in
a symphonic prelude
to
taking action on
the list
of things to do
after
a short break
to breathe
without fear
of decisions
being made
elsewhere
to rend and tear
for reasons
that have always
moved the race
to self disgrace
while denying
any such thing
the dumbfounded
lined up again
behind leaders
without
a second to spare
for the clues
that indict them.
The cat
laps
at the water
in the bowl
the generator cuts out
but the clock
stops
for no one.
