Every time I drive to Central Station, and I watch the buses come and go.  I remember the night you left here, and how I hated to see you go. All my life I’ve lived in Lincoln City.  It’s the place where my family’s from.   I never gave a single thought to leaving.  It’s the only home I’ve ever known.

A dead-end life; that’s what you called it.   Afraid to fly; afraid to fall.  Nothing to gain; nothing to lose.  Who would ever choose a dead-end life?

I’ve been driving cabs since I left high school.  Junk and fast foods are all that I eat.  I spend my nights at the corner poolroom, drinking beer and watching TV.   There were many things we shared in common;  like reading poetry and rubbing feet.  Not enough to keep you here beside me.    I guess I knew someday … you would leave.

A dead-end life; that’s what you called it.   Afraid to fly; afraid to fall.  Nothing to gain; nothing to lose.  Who would ever choose a dead-end life?  

Someday I’m gonna make up my mind.  Pack up and leave it all behind:  this dead end life … that’s killing me. 

Maybe someday I’ll go buy a suitcase, and take the Greyhound down to New Orleans.  And I’ll search in every bar and night club, just like I look for you  … in my dreams.    I see your face each time I close my eyes. I hear your voice and I smell your perfume.   I can’t seem to get you out of my mind.   Guess I’ll have to … follow you. 

A dead-end life; that’s what you called it.   Afraid to fly; afraid to fall.  Nothing to gain; nothing to lose.  Who would ever choose a dead-end life?

A dead-end life;  that’s what you said.  Afraid to fight; you’re better off dead.   And without a dream  … you’ve nothing left to give.     

Someday I’m gonna make up my mind.  Pack up and leave it all behind:  this dead end life … that’s killing me. 

© 2019 by Myron Schreck