Braille

A tiny scar that marks a 
long-ago mishap or misdemeanor. 
A slender ridge left by an 
ancient scalpel. 
Faint dots and lines,   
barely more tactile than a tattoo,  
in the shadow of a breast, 
the lee of a thigh, 
the curve of a hip,  
that startle my hands because 
they are like invisible jags in silk,  
minute blemishes 
embossed on flawless skin.  

Cocooned in love’s sleepy afterglow in my bed, 
your body is warm like hushed earth that 
remembers a newly departed sun. 
My hands sleepwalk across this
mythical landscape, 
stumbling eyeless across 
a scattered alphabet 
in which I’m not literate, 
the coded script 
to a life that has now joined mine. 

There will be plenty of time to learn.  
For now, my fingers are content 
to gather up their stories, 
undeciphered, into my dreams.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2018

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Ashley Avatar
January 27, 2018 at 7:25 PM
A big WOW! Bernard your poem is breathtaking in its beauty; its content, romance, imagery and emotion. Each stanza is compelling and gorgeous in its expression, your second stanza is, for me, especially ravishing. Your poem held me in its enchantment that I didn't want to end. A brilliant write with an equally brilliant title as well.. Warmest wishes my friend.. ~Susan
Chan Avatar
January 28, 2018 at 6:34 AM
Susan, you are always too kind. Thank you indeed :))
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace