Barefoot Boy
by J.L. Mason
from Bahamian Anthology
Little barefoot boy, why no school today?
Is it a holiday that you wander in this way?
Do you dream of bright toys, other little boys
As you wander on your lonesome way,
You with your seven tender years
Little barefoot boy?
Ah! Do you see a door unlatched
And think it only a prank, child's play
When you enter and a handbag take away.
No one saw or did not care to ask you why;
So you cracked conch and bread did buy.
Your first try?
Did we not see your pleading eyes?
Did we pass you by somehow?
No matter - you sit silent in the courtroom now
In your rags and tatters, head bowed,
Little, skinny, unloved, frightened
Barefoot boy.
Amazing! Is the poet J.L. Mason male or female?
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