Listen

I don’t think you hear it
through my chest
as your head rests
on the place I always hoped 
your mind would find itself 
in stillness.

I know the ringing in your ears
is terrifying
after a lifetime spent 
in that hallow bell 
It was so heavy as it was heaved
steadily
front to back

you tried covering your ears
but your hands were needed more
to cover your mouth
because they wouldn’t put up
with your screaming 
dying self.

and you were gone.
the child
the moment they saw your beauty,
how it kills me.

how my hands shake.

if I had been there
I would never have let them
take you.
I would not have let them
place you beneath the heavy brass
no matter how badly they begged
and shred at me.

Oh, how I would have raged right back.

but right now,
I can feel the way your breathing 
has slowed
you don’t have to tell me
how it’s never been so easy.

and I know you have nothing to give,
I know.

because I never intended to take from you.
there is nothing of you
I would ask
other than…

please,  
let yourself settle into the sound coming from 
behind my ribs.
and just, listen.
and do nothing.

be nothing for me, or anyone.

Listen.

Eli LaFlamme