Vagrant, by Kevin Pearson

He learns the geography

of his best suit,

which pockets have holes

and which are secure,

before his excursion

across the green field

when he is called forth,

and if nerves be at him

at the prospect of meeting,

coins in his good pocket

should see his return.

A five dollar note

in black band of his felt

broad-brimmed Akubra

is a purple feather,

pride of his dress

when he is jaunty,

as he is at first

until confidence goes,

and his steps slow

as he approaches

the gates to pass through.

Swoop of a magpie

takes off with his fiver,

so precision a strike

his hat’s undisturbed,

if his wealth less

unbeknownst to him,

though it is just then,

if not to skip,

he lightens his step

to no longer tramp

but to walk upon grass.

- Kevin Pearson

Photo by Paul Skec