Dark hallways Long hallway, doors on either side Like the departure platform at a rail station. No eye contact, everyone looking down, Shuffling along the bland grey floor. Away from the new arrivals Lighting is always dimmed like perpetual twilight And darkness creeps out of some doors like a black fog We come to say goodbye to those who no longer hear, And who stare blankly at the ceiling: While we are looking at the floor. Departure time is slowly approaching, Breathing is mechanical like worn breaks And the smell, the odor that’s hard to describe– Body odor with musty deodorant Exhalation is pungent. No talking now It goes quiet at departure As we silently stand in ovation as we exit FORGOTTEN SONG FORGET ME NOT She’s not you — yet, neither are you, (anymore) You would like her; I think. Flaxen hair (like yours) And I trust all the understanding A widow has of memories and loss. That helps, as I am daily learning To be the reluctant guardian…
The Mechanics of Melancholy: Engaging Poetry by Rick Ratliff
