Bus Station Encounter

The stench 
of excrement-stained clothing, 
of body long unwashed, 
almost obscured 
the rich vocabulary, 
the cultural cadence, 
of the derelict's voice.

The young woman 
did not hear 
his compliments; 
did not recognise 
his astute and 
favourable analysis 
of her fashion statement. 
She merely said, 
"Piss off, 
or I'll scream."