Memphos

Up on my elbow
I stare into darkness
unable to see
even your shadow

I trace with my memory
the curve of your form
lean imperceptibly close
to catch your scent

Your breaths deepen
and one by one
muscles loosen
you drift away

A single finger
beneath your jaw
and round your ear
to your slender neck

Sculpting blind
your shoulder blades
cup your calloused elbow
to see you in the dark

October: 2007

Caught

Car door stands open
my hand on the handle still
eyes intent on screaming
sirens speeding east
My children lie east
curled up in pjs
safe secure?
I am not there

I think to the night
my Mercy left
her angel’s kiss
facedown upon my bed
Couldn’t sleep
there that night
at my parents’
not at all

Months
passed before lying
there did not evoke
her ghost
Still I had to sell it
mattress frame and sheets
I wonder:
Does she haunt it yet?

Breath catches in my throat
Car door stands open
eyes intent on screaming
sirens speeding east
Wailing fades, reds
blues shrink in the distance
breath returns
I feel my heart again

October: 2007