I've Wandered Through Alleys

I've wandered through alleys
the forgotten roads of old neighbourhoods
Shaken hands with the ghosts
sitting on lawn chairs by the back doors
I've seen my reflection through the windows
my features like a blade with every glance
The ghosts, they chuckle and grin
connecting and swallowing endless beer cans
Rainy days, a common companion
a sad slippery friend with benefits
These alleys became so familiar to me
during the dark afternoons of my life
The laughter of ghosts still ringing my ears
but my reflection shines no longer in their windows