Displacement

The geese depart this month. They elevate
   In crooked, southbound Vs.
And though we'll miss them, let us appreciate
A silent silver sky and naked trees.

We once had wished the falling moon could rise,
   Then came the starred tattoos
Of heaven ... Such absences are just disguised
Indulgences. We yearn to yearn. And you,

I speak your name a hundred times a day.
   It keeps me company
When you are far, and each train pulls away
Without me. Merritt Lee ... Merritt Lee ...

Copyright © 2003 D. C. Stone All rights reserved
from The Formalist
Reprinted by Verse Daily® with permission