The air smells of electricity

The air smells of electricity

It tastes of iron and rust,

Dogs always bark

Just before rain falls

And thunder rolls.

Raindrops are a mystery to behold

When the heat is on the rise

I am a phoenix, a cat with nine lives

Watching the world come crashing down

Through a pall of grey

Where the angry sprites play

Hide and seek with each other

Looking for safe haven

From the crows

Who always know which way

The wind blows.

I have seen it all before

From a wide verandah

I survey the world

A landlocked Nelson.

I see no ships

Seeking shelter from the storm

Visibility is cut as short as the temper

Of alfresco diners

Caught napping

After burgers and charcoal-grilled steaks.

Beer before noon

Is an indicator of type two diabetes

Sour breath

And verrucas.

Barefoot in the park

Was a movie

Before it was a way of life

For so many seeking an escape

From the rigmarole of everyday living

Punching a timecard

Working the markets.

Life is an affectation

Roll up your sleeves

Wear shorts

Breathe

It is the modern way

Purposeless decadence.

Smell the electricity in the air

It is the only living thing

Still growing on trees

In New York City

Or anywhere else

With taxes and death duty.

Taste the iron and rust

Swallow your disgust

And breathe.

It is a must

For a cat like me

On a day like this.