98poems/inwinter

In winter we grow closer,
huddle into necessity.
Perhaps it is the cold
– or the damp
that makes me feel
so impoverished.

Too much rain,
the floors stay dirty.
The cats and I pace
crazily about the place.

Last winter we were
home together
for the first time.
We walked by the lake,
I tried to coerce
conversation,
opinions and plans.

I bought a large bag
of beans, and another
of rice, and popcorn,
as close as I get
to laying in provisions.

Finally winter lifted,
the ornamental fruit trees
bloomed – early, as they do.
This year they have bloomed
again, but the desperation
of winter hangs on.

We cuddle longer each day,
winter’s only redemption.
Every day I feel
a little more poor.

2/6/98