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