Frivolity Fragments Poem by John Sensele

In fragments of joy, segments of jubilation,
Black and white cockcrows clean up carrion
Grey mice heighten stations of devastation
Secret lovers seek protection from detection from a centurion.

In fragments of diligence, segments of confidence
Ancillary workers dust off and mop lecture rooms, corridors and loos
Lecturers saunter in silence to deliver lectures beyond coincidence
College management procures bond paper, textbooks, pens, furniture and safety shoes.

In fragments of jealousy, segments of dishonesty
Layers of players and slayers kill partners' trust
Bevies of housewives loath disloyalty
Drunken hubbies ram jalopies into barriers teeming with russet rust.

In fragments of childhood, segments of widowhood
Street kids jostle with one another for crumbs outside After Ten
Blind women with sighted offspring beg for alms in Zesco's neighbourhood
Fresh corn peddlers secure a scarce sale and say amen.