Inhale, Exhale

Coughs echo in silence, reminders of weight,

smog thickens the air, fills my lungs with fate.

A breath in the city, heavy, a chain,

each whiff of exhaust clings, sharp as a stain.

I walk through the dusk, where shadows reside,

a crumpled pack littered, hope cast aside.

I strive for the light, to breathe free and clear,

but the weight of each inhalation holds tight to my fear.