The cityscape prevails over the abyss

of heart-rending soul-crushing doubts.

But rays of sun can no longer kiss

the residents’ effusive cheeks and mouths.

Muffled is the infant's silvery laugh,

beloved's lips covered by coarse polyester.

A cloth stitched grin in smile's behalf

is perhaps an air pocket for hurt to fester.

The oddities against normality ensue.

Lipstick and blush denied an audience,

while the eyes take center stage.

Windows that can see through the pretence

of those neglected like a forgotten page.

Good friends morph into a generic face

taken no notice of in contemporary terrain.

A hesitant embrace, with some space,

can ameliorate the collective pain.

Let the dapples of empathy accrue.