Fat logs crackled
as we ate a little,
drank in each others’ warmth
till closing time,
filling in the missing months
and drawing close again.
White snow spread crisp
underfoot, a smooth white page
for recording our names.
Children left their games
and wrinkled their noses to see
us on the kissing roundabout
Such a cold day to sell
pet rabbits, pink noses,
wet toes, and my hand
in your pocket. Time running
out with the snow-light
and frozen breath between us
Then we found a private place
with pigeons only to observe
us wrapped in deep discussion,
too cold to explore all the bare facts
examine things from every angle
and reach mutual understanding
Before the reluctant train
took you from me, severing
our communication cord,
leaving me lonely on the platform
with whatever remains after the
snow-writing has disappeared.