The Neighbor's Tv

I’m sleeping in the living room*
Which shares a common wall
With my next-door neighbor’s bedroom;
Shouldn’t bother me at all.

But she must be hard of hearing
‘Cause her TV’s more than LOUD.
I’m convinced that on her settings,
Higher volume’s not allowed.

It makes dreamland more elusive
As my shuteye is deferred
Since in TV conversations
I hear every single word.

And the other night, some screaming
Quickly jolted me awake.
When my heartbeat slowed, I realized
That the argument was fake.

Oh, I miss my bed and bedroom
Where the only noise I hear
Is the traffic and my husband’s breath,
Salvation to my ear.

*my husband is self-isolating with probable Covid-19
Copyright © | Year Posted 2020

Poem

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Watt Avatar
May 25, 2020 at 1:12 AM
I think you may be the first woman in history to refer to her husband's breath as salvation to her ear! I commiserate with your lack of sleep at the loud volumes, but even more that your husband is probable COVID-19. Wishing him quick healing and you full health as you care for his needs. Oh, do be safe, my friend!
Wolf Avatar
May 24, 2020 at 7:41 PM
Ha, ha! Time for some 'neighborly communication' -- whatever form that may take! Good luck, Ilene! :) gw
Allison Avatar
May 24, 2020 at 6:17 PM
oh gosh Ilene I am so sorry to hear your hubby may have the virus, just take care of you both ... and get some earplugs so you can get some respite at night!. thinking of you both:-) hugs Jan xx
Leffanta Avatar
May 24, 2020 at 1:22 PM
If still available, buy a see-through plastic shower curtain to separate yourself from your husband, as I'm sure he misses you! I live on the 13th floor, where an idiot watches kiddy cartoons 24/7 at full volume so he can hear it over his barking dog. It amazes me his neighbours have not disposed of him and the dog! Aloha! Rico
Pigeon Tart Avatar
May 23, 2020 at 9:15 PM
Yikes on all accounts. Cute poem though! Hugs and well wishes. xomo!
Cunningham Avatar
May 23, 2020 at 5:14 PM
Sorry to hear that Ilene, hope he makes a speedy recovery. Tom
Marcum Wong Avatar
May 23, 2020 at 4:34 PM
Oh my, I hope your husband will be okay Ilene. I can relate to your words. I am a light sleeper and that would drive me to distraction. Blessings xxoo
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