A chain-link fence

Stood by the playground, eyes caught on the play,

children’s laughter echoing, bright in the day.

But the rusted links hold me, an ache in my chest,

my youth tangled in memories I can’t seem to rest.

Fingers grasping the fence, wanting to reach,

while echoes of childhood whisper and teach.

What’s trapped in this metal, a freedom now lost,

I stand here, alone, counting the cost.