September 13th, 2017

Inland Sea

Lazy, cyclical waves
Hurl themselves over
shivering grassy graves 
Smashed - 

Sandstone boulders hide behind the darkening Sun;
Widening rays of orange Twilight. Look,
You face the long shadow. Vexed
Sigh all over me.
What hazard left us here - 

Eyes pinched
Brittle smile; seething
Hair twisted by the force of words
Whirlwind ribbons pierce and groan;
Coerced and shaken, My
Voice
Tossed out to Sea, the
Inland Sea.

Oil freighters, steely clean metal ore; Old, greasy sailors
Tired veterans shrug off sea-rotted vanity.
I came to be with you; to lie down
Softly, roll up in your arms
Breathe your salted skin.

But, we're out of time. Edgewater peppered with
wiry insults. Inopportune questions.
Why didn't you tell me - 
Prickling embarrassment. I glance away;
My famous concession.

Why didn't you bring me - 
The only thing I ever wanted;
Squeeze shut my eyes
Clutch your loosening hand
Tread my fear, throwing my hands into you.
I'm drowning; Plunging and gasping.
Numb and fading, I 
Don't know how.

Will I get up or tumble off these rocks - 
Either way, I'm trapped on this murmuring
Inland Sea.
JFH (c) 9.12.2017