the mad man
the mad man cackles
at an inside joke
he paces the platform engaged in deep conversation
with the wise man from the east
who no one else sees
people keep their distance
not sure of his next move
they pretend to not be afraid
he stinks he’s loud
he’s filthy
they pretend to be focused on their cell phones and tablets
they respectfully step away from the tracks
as the train pulls into the station
the wise man steps on the train
the mad man waves goodbye from the platform
© 2017, Duaynekalade Parnell Bey, All rights reserved