A Strict Separation

The Echo of What Remains Collected Poems of Wanda Lea Brayton

                           — Inspired by "People" by D.H. Lawrence

i.

Observation becomes more defined with a strict separation

parting the waters, keeping each shoreline distinct.

I see the shells drifting on waves, 

their final destinations gathering their purpose - 

I do not need to listen to every song, 

every echo they offer to know their endings,

to feel their bones scattered across the forlorn sand.

It is easier to remain aloof from the masses,

to be drenched by their individual fragrances 

if we keep space as an ally, 

if we keep our hearts safe from sinking 

beneath another's fierce tide.

ii.

Solitude is a requirement for sanctuary,

a necessary purging from shadows creeping within

without light to pierce this illusion of darkness.

Days turn slowly into nights
and I am certain of less with each moment -
some call this "wisdom".

All I know is this:

my edges fade more with each movement
and pages curl with disuse;
my form will be forgotten -

a wisp of something
that once stood tall among bent reeds,
that once swayed and curled in ink, 

no matter how fierce the wind.