“Walk On By” (Inspired by Isaac Hayes)

I’m lost love, in the orchard, picking fruit. But the pavement

Is so near—a memory to touch. We’ve loved to crumble;

And crumbled to love. I now plead, walk on by. For so much,

Known; and so much, hurts. But never such sweet venom,

A fireside of memories. And now I plead, walk on by. Indeed,

My love, vanish—such dreams, and court the flames of joy.

Exit, my love: escape my thoughts: for such is mercy; and

Such is myth. Thus, forever a voiceprint, a footstep, a thumb

Print upon the psyche; and ever the more we fail to love.

In truth, I must forego: the trumpet blares; and death holds—

The noose. And still, our kiss—is evermore; and still, our

Death is evermore. Thus, walk on by: ignore the orchard; and

Withhold the fruit. For spellbound pain, deafens joy; and

Constant fractures, destroy the soul.