The chalk dissolved
on the pavement
when the first rains
of the year came,
Hopscotch trails
and stick figures
disappearing
as the ground turned a deeper grey.
Only the children were disappointed,
having to retreat indoors,
While the jubilant adults
rushed out to dance naked
in the streets,
Mouths open,
drinking, children themselves
once again.
When the rain ceased
and the sun returned,
The adults quickly dressed,
eyes averted from each other,
And shuffled back inside,
While the children roared out,
Oblivious to the gentle madness of adults,
Rainbow chalks bright
in their innocent hands.
