They sang non-secular songs
From the steps of haunted classrooms
Not teaching, but exposing every emotion
To the empty rain-drenched streets.

It was eerie,
And unexpectedly moving-
For a moment I considered
That I might be more than
Stale smoke and cigarette ashes
Remnants of yesterday
Complemented with matted hair
And the scent of stale liquor.

I wanted to stop and enjoy the moment
Despite my aching head and churning stomach
I ventured on, though, and left it to the judgment
Of my absolutist alter-ego
Just like the others that went before me,
I am only human, after all.