I walked this way...
remembering at 11:50 p.m. on 2005-08-01
I've paused...but only for a moment.
My fingers fumble the leaves, tarnished flesh, scalded by the cold
against vibrant autumn hues.
Yellows, reds, browns...the tiny veins that create a papery canvas, dry and crumble in my hands.
I push them into the air-- awkward confetti
And smile over my shoulder to you.
If my eyes are closed, I can see the simplicity of your shadow, just one small, brushstroke beneath my breath.
I know your voice here, the way it carries on the brittle, thinned air.
I've walked this way home, a hundred times.
Through the dank winter...the wet springs...
The way the rain no longer confines in an ocean of darkness, as my shoes grind against the gravel.
I know warmth is coming...you--
are coming.
I've walked this way home, a hundred times before.
never was � never will be