Siblings in Arms

You used to walk on the right side

of the street.

Putting your body on the opposite side of mine

you attempted to shield me from stray bullets

from speeding cars along the way.

If we were walking outside in the dark

you'd take my hand

and pull me close

because it was common in our neighborhood

for girls to be picked up and raped.

You attempted to protect me

but you couldn't protect me

from myself

just as I couldn't protect you

from the streets

It was our way of life

We were siblings

siblings in arms

I remember the day when

you fought for me and broke your arm

I remember

living on the streets

we were homless

the gang was the only thing we called home

They took me from the streets

but they couldn't take you

They saved me from the life

but they wouldn't save you

I got a phone call the other day.

It was about you.

You were pulling up at our old crib

and a bullet flew trhough

what was I to do

what was I to do

You saved me from myself

but I didn't save you

Author's Note

In regards to my oldest friend
who was shot down
by another.

Reviews

[emipoemi]

......Holy kwap! This is profound and powerful. I in the end found it unclear how this sibling "saved me from myself", but everything else was sublime. Nicely constructed with flawless progression. Well done!