the high rise

it's a high rise.
a giant building sitting between
a dozen
big buildings.

the roads are tight
in this valley of concrete
and glass.

no sunlight. it's dusk all day.

you have to push the button
to get in
after stating your name.

show your id, explain why you're there.

tags to your car.
how long?

and who are coming to see.
there's no parking.

you get a pass for the dashboard,
then go back out
to move your car
out of the visitors spot.

no easy way to get from the lobby to
the tenth floor,
you find the elevator to the east wing,

you walk, you walk,
it's quiet.
not a soul around,
and those you pass in
the darkened hallways
say nothing.

they keep their heads down.

you zig zag, reading the signs,
the numbers,
you knock.

and finally, someone lets you in.