After Dark

Afterglow, The shops all close. A taxi stops. A cold wind blows. Someone gets home. Someone stays late. Nothing unusual, At least not yet. I can't recall When something changed. The streets look right. They just feel strange. After dark, watch the street. Nice old house is quiet and neat. After dark, look again. Every friendly window has a secret within. The same cafe, The same old square. Same little church, Still standing there. A man says, "Morning." I've heard it before, But I can't remember when Anymore. After dark, take your time. Every clean corner covers some grime. After dark, doors behave. Some let you in, some lead you astray. When did it start? I wish I knew. The missing hours, The déjà vu. Maybe one night The city went wrong, Or maybe it was wrong All along. After dark, no need to run. The city looks harmless to everyone. After dark, that's the trick. Nothing looks dangerous Until you look at it. Street lights glow. The shops all close. Nothing unusual, I suppose. Suppose.