Train Whistle

It has lived in me for years
Wielding unparalleled force
This simple sound

A sound so prominent, unmistakable
Carried on the wind, or piercing
Through the still of night

It dutifully serves as a reminder
A reminder of days long past
The way things used to be

An enduring, lonely yearning, hunkering low
There in that wail
We know love

The Chase

I chase you.
You chase her.
She giggles and runs, and
Always a length away,
Absorbs all thrill of being sought.

She speeds, chides, burns.
You hesitate, discouraged.
I catch up, and
For a moment,
Am relieved and contented.

You are again roused.
She grants an illusive gap.
Heavy-hearted,
Yet unshaken,
I chase.

No Substance

This morning I'm sure I'm looking like someone just ran over my new puppy.
Last night's self-destructive behavior left me kicking myself as soon as I opened my eyes.
(But are they open even now?)
No substance caused this.
No substance.