Aftermath of Katrina

They are like stuffed things
when we see them
on their bellies and backs,
unmade beds in chaotic backstairs bedrooms,
guts of barren houses
on nameless streets,
cities far away.

We remain clinical, examine shells
that don't quite cover our reaction
to unkempt lives,
smell of unfamiliar habits.

Only lying beside them
can bring them to life.