The drag of a cigarette deeper,
Than conversation at the bar
Propped up on stools of leather worn out
From days when people were alive and about

Obscured by the people adjacent to them,
Eyes steady and focused
On their cell phone
It is a pity this day, and not a wonder that,
So many claim to feel so alone

Texting words that lack
The warmth of a voice
The fingers, quickly press on

A satellite transport for human connection,
This silent technology
Is troublesome

No longer the setting to close out your day
For a quick talk, a “How do you do”
Throw back a drink with a perfect stranger,
Have a smile, a laugh,
It all seems now taboo

“What’ll you have” were the only words
I recall hearing last night
“A glass of red” was all I spoke,
As I sat back to observe
This saddening plight