Shards of memory litter my mind,
Adolescent complaints and ancient regrets,
Hopes and disappointments left behind
Like yellowed notes of uncollected debts.
Useless fictions, dreams, desires, lies,
The masks I wore for work, success, protection,
Love’s nakedness—a lonely man’s disguise.
Longing becomes a habit, desire a reflection
In clouded eyes. But from the rubble, a man
Patient and true emerges to close my years,
Mind clear to comprehend, discover, plan,
Create, compose—old age brings little to fear.
I will not crawl into darkness, a dying beast.
Let my soul escape—at last, released.
