061710b What Are They Asking? Poem by Manonton Dalan

three gentlemen leaning brick wall
counting their quarters and nickles
tempted to exchange to cool water
two steps, selection buttons waiting
for correct change; dedicated will
parch throat; drying lips; dream sail

price went up; chances almost nil
first one who came by their side
i hear whisper 'she doesn't have'
same with me but they never ask
i saw them mumbling; walk away
asking every person on their way