Hollow Gourds

Hollow empty gourds hang

emotionless, empty

with holes cut through to expose 

their dark vacancy

adorning barren trees

devoid of life

shivering in the frigid night air

as their furlong song echos 

down the long chamber of my heart.

~

Because you are not here.

~

I close my eyes and hear your voice singing 

your song through my seasons 

  pronouncing each one 

with clarity and grace.

~

I feel your touch

your caress

your breath on my skin

molding  me,

owning me,

dancing rhythmically through my brain

Until I open my eyes

and you cease to be.

~

I die a little more

and a little more

until I just can't bear it!  

~

The sharp edge of night

draws ever near

shining it's cold hard glare

piercing into my eyes

blinding me from what was

and what could be

until all I can see is the now-

the greedy, hungry now!

O night!  Devour me!

Tear the sun from the sky 

and throw the stars into the sea!

And bury me where you buried my love!

Leave me nothing but dry bones;

barren earth and clay

and the sorrow of hollow gourds

hanging from a dead tree.