Together

Together we came to the edge of the city, walked a few of its blocks, carrying in our different ways the flame of life. We were learning to care for that flame – learning not to die. The city swirled around us, all four of its seasons seeming to happen at once, inside us. Its music happening, and we were – you especially – adding to it. In one of its little apartments you sang, and I sang too, after my fashion, our singing joining the city's ongoing euphony.

 

Much of my singing you couldn't hear. It happened while you were sleeping, while looking at you for a moment at peace, touching your hair. That’s the way of love: in the end, it’s a private affair.

 

Now, still at the city's edge, we part. I see you striding away, not looking back, the wind rain sun snow all happening around you, wind rain sun snow in your hair, and above me too, while I watch you go. Older, slower, it takes me time, is taking me a long time, to turn away, to walk with my flame deeper into the city, another long block, toward whatever awaits at its heart.