starshine

i would note (with sadness)

that each of us has hopes

dreams

thoughts

and words

that, if shared,

would form a song

to touch the heavens.

yet the stars shine in silent darkness,

never touching or being touched.

the tendrils of their lonely lights flicker on

as though it could matter.

if the poet cries out,

alone in the night,

does he make a sound?

11/5/1994