Thanks........ Poem by RIC BASTASA

there will always be compromises
no limit. between the teeth and lips
between my hands and yours, a space.

my right hand on your cheek exclude
the hair. another space. no words.

between your silence and mind, a
space for feigned ignorance. I do

not profess to love you, and you
do not know it. a space for a

crime, think, a space for ethical
considerations. Shame and punishment.

your lips are almost there. a space
again for my gaze. A little distance

to stop and overload of gasps, a gap
for contemplation. put a space for fear.

a hesitation of distaste and dislike.
massage, and vassalage, a passage and

discharge. a space for the night.
sleep alone, say goodbye. Thanks.