waltz

preoccupied with feelings only i know exist

as i cover them in a vintage veil

each time they lift a corner

stretch a limb out from beneath

i tuck it back inside and add another layer

these feelings won’t let me be

they continually beg for my attention

it feels lonely as i dance with each one

a joyless waltz across the floor

but only i can hear the music and

sense the quiet rhythm in the floorboards

moving my feet as if they aren’t attached to me

as i sway and move robotically through each song

i hope as each one ends

the next one will be something

— anything

other than a lifeless waltz