Now It's Been Two Years

by gareth writer-davies

and the frost feathering the windows

is outside

which you always complained about

the house

was too damn hot

and you couldn’t catch your breath

the cat

got your worn out tongue, Mother

we kept the rest

in a jar

thinking that if anyone could make a sign

you could

are you now ready as bonemeal

to be spread

to grow a tree in a memorial garden

or feed a hungry fox?

we made you mute (sorry about that)

but I’ve left the window open a crack

take a deep breathe of dust

emanate

I have a fine mesh net in one hand

in the other a hoover