Rhythm, driven by strong purpose, resounds
through empty streets; it bounces from the ground
and the canyons of brick. My young heart pounds.
I breathe, sucking in air, pulling it down
and relishing its cold crispness. I’m drowned
in the constant motion, in freedom found.

The music drives me on, its urgent beat
blocks the sound of my ragged breath. My feet
hit asphalt to the pulse with a whack. Heat
rises, throbbing from my flesh and a sheet
of sweat leaves my skin glistening. Defeat?
Not an option; this solitude is sweet.

Bathed in delicious agony, I taste
the tang of salt on my lips. I’m encased
in pure exhilaration as the pace
quickens with the next track. Mind’s on the race
drugged with exaltation and my legs laced,
infused, engulfed with screaming fire’s embrace.

Expelling spent air from my lungs, my chest
heaves, while my battered limbs shake in protest.
Stubborn resolve carries me to the crest
of the final hill, as one possessed,
then I find the last of my strength and press
on. I finish, spent, and grin with success.