Alone in Dhaka without my family, it takes time to grow comfortable with solitude… but after the first weeks she feels again like an old friend.
.
Empty Rooms
.
She moves in quietly, as others depart
Silent silhouette by shaded window, sitting still in shadows
Unobtrusive but politely persistent
.
I avoid her, rise from my seat when she enters
Restlessly busy, ignoring the soft clearing of her throat
Returning late, leaving her alone in empty rooms
.
She takes no offense, drifts quietly after me
‘Til I grow tired of evading her and turning at last to face her
Remembering that she is an old friend
.
I had forgotten the relief of her consistency
Neglected our shared memories, her comfortable company
Embracing sad loneliness I find sweet solitude
.
This is filled with beautiful, tangible, images, and evokes feelings we can all relate to. Well done Rilla ( and also well done for the highly commended piece on Chris’ competition)
Thanks Paola, and thanks for the encouragement in general!
Now that the busyness of moving from Malawi will no longer keep the house busy, I know that this is the journey I am about to embark on once I get to China and find myself living alone for the first time in my life for an extended period and the first time in 21 years without children. I sympathise at the moment and will empathise soon! Very nicely written, Rilla – I hope to feel the same sentiments.
Thank you Samantha, as you are an interesting person I’m sure you’ll enjoy getting to know yourself again!