A WAKING DREAM


What has become of the night
When did he last sleep
The dreams keep coming
Even while awake and alert

Does she exist anymore
Did she ever
He remembers how beautiful she was
How long ago now

Her hair rested just below her shoulders
Her eyes pale blue
Penetrating everyone she met
They don't talk about her anymore

Is she just a memory
One to be moved past
Still he holds on to her
Insisting she will walk through a door

He wishes for her embrace
Her obtuse questioning of the universe
Insights into daily life
He knows she is gone

A hand touches him
Warm and cold
He turns to look
Nothing, no one is there

He is filled with her presence
Telling him to let go
He falls asleep at last
She is safe and for now out of reach


Michael V Hechtman