We knew little
The day it began
And that’s how life
Often leaves us

With tempered glass
Still obscuring
What arms can stand
Losing face

When turns they take
Always pass
From perceiving gears
During heartbreak

Like our phases set
Between measures
Where moments elude
Being grasped,

Though sound alone
Must compare
To these glimpses caught
While believing

If one more hand
Edging nearer
Should sing love’s hope
Bittersweet

On elapsing beats
Which confess
Every failing dance
Worth agreeing

Such dreams held close
Tear at dresses
Too beautiful now
For those proms

Few ending scenes
Will depict
As vague escapes
Faking youthfulness –

Just another bad wish
Taking numbers
Pitting breath
Against better days.

• J. Pigno