chamber

“If ever you fall in love, do so without reservation, or rather, if you should fall in love simply give no thought to any reservation.”

Vincent van Gogh, 1881

I have walked, pulse-quickening 

in and out of 

each of the four halls 

a time or two 

every few days 

to close all the doors with care— 

mending, healing  

as best I can. 

But no matter how many times

I turn my back on your door, 

it remains open— 

just a crack

just enough 

for a stream of light 

to illuminate the 

dust particles

drifting, dancing

innumerous

through the air.  

And though I have 

eliminated the option 

of ever loving again

those who once  

occupied each deep corridor  

of my heart, 

I keep your door ajar, 

just in case you happen 

to open it again

step out 

wander down the chamber  

and find your way 

back to me.