Early in the morning
the trains already smell -
the air thick with human odour
that open windows fail to dispel.
The malodorous fug a fruity blend
of smells man-made and natural -
a vast array from pleasant perfume
to others more diabolical.
A few top notes punctuate
the background smell beneath:
beery breath and garlic;
blocked sinuses and bad teeth.
Bodies emitting clues to diet:
the raw fish of sushi,
the spices of curry and stir fry,
and ubiquitous coffee.
Perfume, aftershave and nail varnish
can offer some respite,
but the more obnoxious ones
just add to my plight.
The reek of musty clothes
not properly dried
tests the nose’s self-defence:
to become desensitised.
On the journey home other whiffs arise:
the alcoholic’s contribution
of alcohol, fags and urine,
a rather potent emission;
BO from sweaty armpits
amid wafts from cheesy feet,
and just to cap it all, the sewage works
after a day of sweltering heat!
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