A Predictable Life Poem by Donal Mahoney

He was predictable
all those years
going home after work
doing odd jobs
around the house
getting ready for
work the next day.

He remained predictable
after the divorce
going home after work
doing odd jobs
getting ready for
work the next day.

He was still predictable
after he lost his job
applying for benefits
and looking for work
doing odd jobs
around the house
looking for work
the next day.

He wasn't predictable
after his benefits ran out
and the bank foreclosed
and he had to sell the car
and move to the streets.

He sleeps in hallways now
washes dishes in a diner
for breakfast and lunch
and a few dollars to spend
at McDonald's for dinner.

He's predictable again
but he has no home
works harder for less
and can't vote this year.
He has no address.