Home is a dream I have (Leaving)

Home is a dream I have in the dark

Toes pressed tight to the foot

of this narrow bed.

Silence spreads and wavers

tucked against a close ceiling

and walls that lean down to meet me

an embrace but I

(no thank you, I said)

(It’s just a hug, don’t be so dramatic)

Duck away and catch the eye

Of the overfull coat rack

Constant friend

Many a night frightened me with

hulking shadow in the corner but now

There is this much space at least between the ceiling and the crushing weight on my lungs

The distance of my favourite black trench coat

Air in the pockets

and a stick of gum

To ward off the roof collapsing.

Home is a dream I have of windows that look out

Smiles and nods on the sidewalk

(What a good dog, did you see?)

And two coffee cups set on the counter

“Good morning” I whisper to the grey that has crept in to coat the walls

Still air and chill

(Good morning, how did you sleep?)

Home is a dream of voices and a kitchen table

Of gentle sound without apology

And a closing of this narrow crypt

I will not need again.