A Night In The Middle Of A Night

you are allowed to bring two items with you
and then you’ll leave forever
we’ll be back, that’s all they said before they left

night was underway,  things were always underway
nothing seemed to start or end
every time was in the middle
but this night was pretty
when I found myself already there
looking up at a lightshow sky

the outside, my only companion
when movement emerged between the points
of far off pinpricks and patterns
then colour began and shapes shorty after
as the swirls and spirals drew closer
I don’t know exactly when the blackness
changed fully to tessellates of neon-like blocks
but amidst my threatening tremble
one landed too closely
it was all a bit too beautiful and mouth-dropping

even after all this time, a part of me is expecting
them to return as promised
even though I’m awake now 
but so vivid was that night

I often wonder what two items I should choose
just in case
Copyright © | Year Posted 2024

Poem

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Ashley Avatar
August 31, 2024 at 9:59 AM
Dear Clive, I adore the title as well as your amazing poem with its undercurrent of duress in the opening verses followed by the wonderment of seeing the "lightshow sky" that became "a bit too beautiful and mouth-dropping". The juxtaposition of emotions is striking. I enjoyed your introspection and lingering feelings upon awakening - the vague dread that remained and the haunt of what two items to bring.. such an intriguing piece! Warmest wishes.. ~Susan
Culverhouse Avatar
August 31, 2024 at 10:48 AM
Thanks for reading, Susan, and for such a great comment, much appreciated
Cunningham Avatar
August 31, 2024 at 3:18 AM
Great story telling Clive, I could feel the tension rising, you'll have to write a part two. Enjoy your weekend. Tom
Culverhouse Avatar
August 31, 2024 at 3:30 AM
Unfortunately though I woke up from the dream so unless I dream a part 2... ooh but the threat of them coming back, and I still need to figure out what items to take
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