On Gertrude Street

On Gertrude street an old man out for a walk
Draw stares from strangers as to himself he talk
I heard him shout aloud as he looked my way
Though I did not understand what he did say.

His strange behaviour did not frighten me
For he seemed frail and as harmless as can be
Though a couple by their behaviour did show fear
And crossed the street as to them he drew near.

And though incoherent it was not hard to tell
That he is one who has been through living hell
From alcoholic addiction his life out of control
And self abuse on him had taken toll.

I wonder why he choose to live this way
For some past sins has he a price to pay
Or has life to him in some way proved unkind
Or in true love happiness he failed to find?

For his type you won't find many who care
And I know society does not judge him fair
But he is human and he has feelings too
And what would they know of what hardships he's been through?

A gray haired and frail old man that life had beat
He shouted loudly as he walked the street
With wrinkled face of years he looked three score
And tattered looking were the clothes he wore.

In park off of Gertrude street the wild birds sing
And flowers are blooming in the warmth of spring
But a poor old bloke to himself shout and talk
As he shuffles down the street on the sidewalk.