Exchange of Reticence

In arm's length from fruit and flower
banks of blossoming, nests and noise

the romance of paths and gates withdrew

like drained vessels, bloodless and thirsty.

My flesh pales

and when branch, bud or face
stayed disappeared

i grew as fire grows,
divine burn

and those returned to touch
and this fire retreats for love

of integrities.

Some of you share time and room
some drag me from sticks and kindling.

I cannot allow this fire to burn
in our time

so i will stay out of sight.