Otherwise (Poetry)

I let you take the flesh from me —
strip me to the bone.
I sorrowed for our history
and knew I mourned alone.

I saw the doom clouds gathering
I didn’t flinch or pray
acknowledging our destiny
was bound to have its way.

I felt the edge in each gay laugh —
the glint of your cold knife.
It pressed against my knowing heart
and shadowed love in spite

of promises from perfect lips
unbidden and absurd.
Our sun completed its eclipse
betraying every word.

Dawn arose without your face.
Flesh weathers over time.
The scar has left a bloodtrail trace
but otherwise I’m fine.