Late some nights,
As I lay in bed
Wrestling with those others,
Your shadow’s breath
Lingers on the cotton sheets.
I know that it wants to ask
Where I have been.
And why my words, though common
Sound strangely unusual,
Like the lyrics of an ancient song.
I want to answer
That it’s not forgetfulness,
Or abandonment.
That I remember the joy
Of breathing in unison.
While devouring life.
All you gave I still have,
Warmly wrapped in dreams,
Like an infant sleeping
On a mother’s breast.
All I gave may be gone,
Diluted in daily chores.
Or drowned in silly noise.
A good exchange, I would say.
Perhaps there were many twists
Hidden, perverse,
In the seemingly straight path.
And my heart simply got lost,
Just like the confused thoughts
Of an old man.