bleak house

[unboxed_project]

one of these days, I will stop responding.
when you say hello, you'll get two syllables back
no more than an echo,
nothing of me.

you will pick me up, carry me with you
put me on your dashboard, for what luck I'll bring,
you'll get compliments on me.
I'll stare blankly back without wishing for windows.

you will tie me to the rafters; your guests
will lean inwards under me, touch mouths, breathe breath,
let the new year sail on without me,
there's nothing to see here. nothing left.

you will expect me to revive. to break, with time,
to let the words come slipping out again, not even realizing.
you will think the years of our love will testify,
and bring me back to you.

you will christen the ship with me, name your children for me,
dream your dreams of me, live every day with me.
I'll be in your pocket, curled like a stone in your hand,
while your eyes face forward, watchful, waiting.