to lost loves and those who grieve

yesterday he held her close to his heart

and whispered the mysteries of the universe

in her ear

now each day lasts at least one hundred years

and she waits by the fire listening for his song

to start again

she only hears the cooing of the doves

and the panting heavy breath of the dog

or is it her own

but she knows if she keeps listening

she will hear his voice deep inside

close to her heart

until then she lies in the dark at night

and weaves peacock feathers

in her hair

(for Toni)