Poetry Pick

A KISS LIKE HERS
SHOULD NEVER HAVE AN END

by Hugh MacDonald
Prince Edward Island, Canada



I am lost, I am lost, in the robes of this light.                                                                         S. Plath

Even when we touch there is space between us.
Well-defined orbits make for a safe sky. I imagine
You and I separate particles, adrift on one small planet.
I'm never satisfied: I have no sense of shame.
Only fools sustain themselves on hopeless dreams.
In the season of asteroids, I long for meaningful collision.

And all of this from just one kiss: one New Year's Eve,
Warm wet lips. They've turned me from my course.
Cut loose from you I drift like black ice in space.
How thick and cold my blood's become.
Where are the shining eyes of God?
There is no light within such depthless dark.

If I can have you, then I'll gladly wait.
I'll let you live your days, I'll lurk outside. And so I sit
While others whirl you 'round and fill you up
Leave legacies of lies and drain your cup.
I'll settle for what's left when they are done. I know
How much of you there is. There'll be enough.

Mother of planets, only turn the sun on me!
I'll smile upon her face such loving light.
Make me shine. I will lighten up her steps.
We will whirl through space in endless dance.
And that will do just fine. How could I still want more?
Such bliss, such bliss, a kiss like hers should never have an end.

From Tossed Like Weeds From the Garden (Black Moss Press, 1999)


 

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