A mass of humans bustle over the platform;
An anxious air above them
The stinking clothes and crumpled faces paint a picture of exhaustion
Amid hot and humid
A loud orchestra plays early
Its booming brass, beating drum, and clashing cymbal entertain a dull audience
The aroma of soups, sandwiches, and coffee soothes the nostrils
Those conscious stop; the oblivious taking the sidewalk
Closed shops come alive
Dusters and brooms swing and sway sprinkling clouds of dust into the air
Countless loud voices scream over the other from the wired boxes,
Deafening the passers by
Amidst the cacophony, an elderly man sits in the shade and draws a bow
A melodious voice sings ballads, teasing and mocking the insanity.
© Piyangie Jay Ediriwickrema.