Grave Decisions

Grave Decisions

My white breath puffs as I chug along,
Shoes scuff-scuffing through brittle leaves.
Passing trees wear leaves like funeral curtains
Parting on windy gusts
And break glimpses of my soul’s abyss.

Ahead, lamplight dings safe harbor,
A steady buoy against the deep.

My arms cling to the metal,
cheek pressed against steel,
As I consider not striking out.
Ions do not plug a leaking sanctuary,
So I abandon ship.

Ink stains seep closer,
Claiming territory for the master.

Shambling horrors skirt my eyeline,
Tongues lolling past black lips.
I don’t consider the possibilities,
But determine a straight line traveled true and
Quick armors my delicate flesh.

Off into the unknown,
Grave decisions.