the late spring leaves shudder outside,
the shutters rattle in the wind,
the sky the same grey as before.
my feet are covered in dirt, nails
grow long, untrimmed. i sharpened them
a little while ago, when i thought
a partner sat along my side.
they may have been the wind, un-licked
lips parted for a kiss present
wherever i stray with weak legs.
spring is closing before its--
my affection has stopped its
lingering for an imagined
life among my love. this is a
life where they hug my quiet sighing.
this is a curse because it repeats.