one

And we walked through the gentle sadness of the evening and kid, I think I really loved you then.

It was a long good time away but I think I did.

Why?

Well I think...

just because.

When evening touches my closed and shuttered windows and my eyes have turned inward for your image

-I blow out the candle.

Night creatures have fluttered past

and have crackled the new fallen snow

into prints of anonymous by-gone lives.

Their whispers have joined

the sighings of the old trees

as gradually, even the strings of leaves. begin to quiet.

Another boxed creature

across the road has scurried to and fro

within his rooms

and exhibits his joy in diffused chromatics.

And alone now,

I watch a sprite of a flamed coal

leap tenuously for life.

You walked through my garden earlier

and as I watched unseen from my window

you paused for a moment.

Thinking you had seen me

I stepped further back into the darkened recesses of my room.

And you were gone.

We were like two cowards

frightened by each other's image.

I think the New Year begins for

chimes of steepled bells remembered and real are clambering for attention.

Maybe you'll return

when tomorrow comes.

Maybe. But I do not think so.

Happy newest year and

Good by sorrows-goodnight.

Peter Farlekas

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