Lock Down in the Park

The air is clear,
a brittle sun shines off leaves,
an unusual glitter.

Paced and parted 
runners puff and thud
in cushioned trainers.

Children, not understanding
the rules of separation,
serpentine across the path.

A man sits smoking,
insouciant
on the forbidden bench.

Occasional encounters,
six feet spaced,
chat on each side of the gap.

All return to restriction,
some to isolation-
four walls advancing
on the sense of self.

Sarah Worster