The silence
burrows deep into
my skin,
soaking right through
to my veins.
The air is
tight,
anxious,
as if it fears
the coming
storm.
The highway
stretches out
before me.
A painted sunset
reflects its light
on wet
pavement,
casting a blood-red
sheen.
My mind feels
muddy,
thick,
as I contemplate
the road
before me.
The sunset fades
and a fingernail
moon,
almost dark,
begins its
ascent.
I pick up my
soul
from the highway’s
shoulder,
tucking it
deep inside
where no one
can find it–
the journey home
is never
safe.
7-4-9