Miniature lilac tea-candles

in the bathroom, on the john

are symbols of the teardrops

from the bathtub, they burned on.

 

And that spray of ivy hanging

from the candelabra on the wall

with pictures of dark-brown oak leaves-

reflect you, & to me call.

 

Our Christmas tree is stripped now

without the tinsel and the balls--

lies naked by the hall door;

mistletoe-kisses, it recalls.

 

The coffee maker sleeping

all cold, and empty too,

but still is full of coffee-grounds;

my morning roused with you.

 

When I sprawl out and try to sleep

on our pleasant queen-sized bed,

the smell of you potpourris the sheets;

Your absence fills my head.

 

Our dream was cruelly shortened

when you left that squalling day,

the streets were thick and icy~~~

If only you had stayed.