machines rumbling

 

i can hear machines rumbling

in the night & the gnashing

of cold metal teeth in the dark

 

in the cold, the metal screams

crunching gravel, bones, & ice

 

when there is no wind, blowing,

their cries ring, shrill, against

cracked frosted window panes

 

there is no escaping, & i sit,

waiting, & take another drink

 

 

- Sheldon Birnie