Ephemera

Ephemera

I’m solving that old equation: Exactly
How to undo
The geometry that holds us
Suspended

The diagram takes
A cunning shape
Sharp to the touch,
and precarious:
A cat’s cradle tangled
A jangling mobile hanged
On a steel wire net

It’s an acrobatic trick,
Disarming this love
Trip one wire, and the shock
Will set the rest to humming
Vibrating our small constellation till it shatters

Holding my breath
I clip at your heartstrings
Hoping this whole thing doesn’t shake apart
If I’m subtle enough
To slip the knots
You may never notice me let go

Even now I can feel us
Fragmenting
Hurtling
Casting off the vestigial
and essential
Indiscriminately,
And without forethought
All the while attempting
A casual disregard
for regret