Bystander Effect
A poem, first published in takahē magazine.
Bystander Effect
It’s four years later and I’m on a bus
while somewhere you drive your own car
and I stare out the window
at two women fighting on the street.
One has crutches. Both are pulling
each other’s hair. They smack
down onto the concrete. I see a bag,
its contents spewed out all around
the bus stop. The driver does not
acknowledge the row. He dispatches
the lone passenger getting off,
a business suit who walks right past
the women. I turn my head and see
another passenger looking on,
mouth ajar, half-rising to their feet.
I let my face assume a frown
to demonstrate my concern.
One of the women looks at me then.
But the driver closes the door
and drives off.
And I know it’s selfish and stupid of me
but the bus plows on and I’m not thinking
of those women, but of you.
Standing there, turning away,
walking on by, eyes down.
I turn to look out the window
but it’s dark outside and I’m faced
with my own reflection. It’s night
but the stars are hidden. The sky
is clear tonight, not reflecting anything.
About the Creator
Svetlana Sterlin
Svetlana Sterlin is based in Brisbane, Australia, where she writes prose, poetry, and screenplays. The founding editor of swim meet lit mag, she also edits with Voiceworks.
More from Svetlana: https://linktr.ee/svetlanasterlin
Enjoyed the story? Support the Creator.
Subscribe for free to receive all their stories in your feed. You could also pledge your support or give them a one-off tip, letting them know you appreciate their work.
Comments (2)
This was so deep and poignant. I loved your poem!
Great work! Good job!