Birmingham: November '86

Alone in the city, amongst millions of people.
Naked in the city, wrapped up against the November chill.
Lost in the city, between so many landmarks.
Afraid in the city, comforted by the concrete.

In this city, womb of concrete,
Where people walk and meet,
You are not here, always there,
In the country, free from care.

In this city, ties that bound me,
You'll never find me.
I haunt the streets, see the skyline,
Forever hitting the emotional breadline.

I'm only looking for a sign.
Something or someone
To help me change my mind.
I'm not calling out for rescue.
I'm not reaching out for charity.
But sometimes in the twilight
I find it hard to see.

I'm only asking questions;
Searching for an answer
Or helpful suggestions.
I'm not fishing for sympathy
Nor looking for compliments.
But thoughts of myself
Are only to the detriment.

I'm only taking liberties,
Playing my games
Or living my fantasies.
I'm not being unkind
Or being spiteful,
But the way you wear your smile
Is really rather hateful!