Bus is crowded. Packed like sardines in the aisle,
Passengers are jolted against one another,
Avoid their neighbours’ gazes
As they pile against each other at a red light stop.
Some young people squat possessively in seats
While older men and women stand and cling
Precariously to bars as the bus jars.
Those who bring parcels and baggage
That take up space
Are subject to hostile glares.
There are overt stares
At loud talkers on mobile phones.
There are groans as the bus stops
And more passengers push their way on board.
Standing passengers tread on toes,
Trying to make room as the bus goes