Another Farewell Poem by Aida Santos

A quick farewell.
We refuse each other’s eyes
they paint wide strokes
of sadness and fears.
I am ruthless, I’ve commanded
the tears
to the prison of my panic.
We must be strong, we pledge:
a quick shuffling of feet
an excruciating hug
a screaming kiss
goodbyes without words,
take care, write soon, write tonight.


You picked up your pack, a seasoned traveler
I gave way to trivia
in this solemn ceremony:
`The blue jacket suits you...’
A cold, cold grip
in my insides
a rupture, a wound, utter grief
a quick turn in a corner.
I headed for the exit.
Steel ourselves, I heard myself
talking to no one.
The heart is a stubborn piece.