10
but everyone is listening to their headphones
or reading used paperback novels or babbling
at a crying child
or awkwardly avoiding the gaze of the strange man
by reading the graffiti-covered advertisements above the windows.
After this announcement he straightens his faded gray vest
tightens the straps to his accordion
and plays a happy tune as he always has and always will.
After making a dollar and fifty two cents he
gets off the subway and rides the escalator
up to the sidewalk,
where an angry twelve year old boy kicks a one legged pigeon
against a brick wall.