Three Knocks
Three knocks upon the door – who goes there?
It is I, your heart!
Oh, well, I didn’t expect you back so soon …
But come, take a seat, warm yourself by the fire.
God knows it is frigid beyond these walls.
The heart clasps cold hands before the flame,
And looks at me with guilty eye –
I didn’t mean to intrude upon you yet again;
I thought this time might be different, but –
Hush now! I know it is a dream so sweet,
But within these walls you have oft stayed,
And you can be safe; kick up your feet,
My friend. Tis somewhat bitter to have you back
Beneath my control.
Yet … it has oft been this way, and there is comfort in that.
A savage pleasure, an arrogant sneer, a cloying power.
You are mine – not hers – you understand?
And a tear falls from his guilty eye, but he does not move away.
15 October 2019
Written for "Give Me Your Best New Poem" contest sponsored by Emile Pinet
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