Leer

why is it only 

the otherworldly ones

the angels and paladins 

and daemons

who rush to defend me

against the covetous 

and leering carrion birds

who stalk the street

or coffee shop

where are 

the ordinary men 

why do they not

push back their chairs 

and crack their knuckles 

when there is cause 

not being young 

or beautiful 

made me think 

I was safe 

from this kind of 

envious desire 

that takes 

instead of asking 

all I want 

is to be looked in the eyes

to have my words heard

the same as any of you