[RCrawford]

Valediction Against Mourning


Christ, I see you’re finished lying here.
You tried everything to get me off
and go. It was distressing how you coughed,
until you stopped. Sweet, I’ll leave you somewhere
safe, I swear. Nearby. You’ll never need
to wonder why I brought you to my stale
crib, made you show your age until your nails
tore ragged hours down my chest. Don’t bleed
so fast, Dear. I’ve been your chaperone,
a steady hand to waltz you through some songs
of stuff that conquers all and makes us one.
I’m touched, grateful that you’ve come along
– just to feel the long arm of a grown
man’s relief. I’d never do you wrong.