I wonder when they'll fill in the potholes
We used to tumble above
Avoiding traffic and difficult discussions
I walk down back alleys waiting
For the steady sounds of a heavy tread
Stalking slowly behind me
But they never come

I haven't seen the stars in days
And I wonder why they hide
Behind the pale glow of their mother's gaze
I keep quiet and to myself
The dust I breathe settling in my vocal folds
I never bothered to learn their names
And they don't know mine

I keep my instruments in their cases
Along the wall where they belong
And I wonder if my parents are proud of me
I was the son that met every expectation
And walked away without another word
Wearing every boot that fit
And shoes that didn't

I light short fuses in quick succession
Raising my fist in defiance
And pondering the value of eleven minutes
I wonder if you ever think of me
A face you don't quite recognize
A voice more gruff than you remember
And I hope you don't