SUNRISE

i promised you i would be
there when you rose
in all your spasmodic splendour

every morning for a week
we have met eyes leaking
upon my cheeks already damp
from your insolent dew

each day i yawn
in the wet grass
while your spit collects
glittering in my hair

caught in your
condescending gaze
the rising sun

i fell asleep
and missed each day
trading sun bathing
for star gazing

i searched the sky
until my vision clouded
cast over days
over-cast days

today i fulfill my promise
for the last time
ending our affair
with sullen conviction

i am awake
under your premature rays
the subtle halo of
today's noose beginning
to tighten around my neck

©Copyright May 10, 2004 Sheila Cook.