Shadows stalk me still.
Never get their fill.
How could you delight
in the morning's light
if the nighttime had no will?
When the evening comes,
our contents under pressure,
antiseptic, screwed on tight,
strictly contained--
will you meet my eyes
and read their urgent message
and confront your demons
when I call your name?
Rock me tender, rock me slow.
There's still time till you must go.
Even if it's just one night,
kiss me long and hold me tight.
Rock me tender, rock me slow.
Long as you're alone,
as your desires roam,
smile as you may,
however bright the day,
you'll face shadows of your own.
Let our palettes merge,
our shadows, light converge
into a panorama rich
as it is bold.
Let the shadows play
and make their cautious way
amid the cool of living's shades
and feeling's folds.
Rock me tender, rock me slow.
Must you leave? Why must you go?
Let the day carry the night.
Kiss me long and hold me tight.
Rock me tender, rock me slow.
(originally published in Quail Bell Web zine)
