Memphis Show

The smoke permeates
the static-filled air
as the constant beat
of the drums
echoes the rhythms
of the hearts turned
toward the stage.
Loud laughter
from the back of the
dark room
causes heads to jerk
and eyes to peer
into the blackness behind
before his voice
captures their attention.
To them he sings
his thoughts, his words-
his vulnerability-
and the audience
remains entranced
as they bend their lonely
heads to light
one more cigarette.