in headlights
I step into this gentle night
called by the winds’ soft tone.
From my paired branches, rain
settles on the starless road below.
I crane my neck to see
below the whistling reed,
a peering mouse whose
dear eyes return my doe oddity.
Within this creature’s gaze
I could remain till dawn,
as sunken streams spread
from long-lived showers
that cleanse my fortified hide
built from civil smog.
Then in the easing haze,
a dull hum breaches.
Two sharp eyes flash
and I buck to billowed ribbons
of soulless arms aiming to embrace.
The dark that once lulled
now stiffens to a freeze,
sifting through my bones.
A sticky sight to see
those enclosing optics frame
the glass gate of the night
All I know is to hold my gaze
with this flaming end to the night.
