Recall Poem by GORDON GILHULY

recalling the feel -
hot skin and cool satin and
wetness seeping through

even when you are with me
you are already leaving

recalling the smells -
perfume perspiration and
the musk of woman

you move beyond this real place
the past gathers you in pain

recalling the sounds -
words become hoarse whispers
become sweet silence

soundless you dissolve again
ancient anguish kidnaps you


recalling the taste -
liquid salt on skin and hair
ocean's dusky kiss

the tide of despair rolls out
leaves behind an empty shell

recalling the sight -
you naked as morning light
beautiful as day

darkness is an emptying
it falls slowly taking you

recalling the loss -
much was in the offering
access was denied