sitting in english literature 
the professor told us
to write poems for half an hour 
reading them out loud 
the next hour
to the students

my eyes fix on you
the desk over a row from mine
this poem is about you
but you won't ever guess

adelheidis

i look into the face
large eyes the shape of almonds
soft and gentle like a child's
but hardened at the edges 

from the pain and loss
of the wounded torch-bearer
leading by example
the color green striking
me to the core

hair like a falcon's feather
curls across the forehead
kissed by my eyes
as you face down writing
poetry

hello
this secret lover 
stares at you
writing without a tongue



2.5 7/5
© Brian Peter Hodgkinson