thunderstorm

It was like the night I woke with a start, rain clattering the tin roof to shreds
Briny tears spilling from my heart, soaking the sheets that choked the last breath from around my neck
In greedy gulps I swallowed the grey bedroom air, so sharp it stung my lips,
so cold I could not hold it and desperately cried for more
My heart galloped over the moors
And the looming figures of wardrobes and hat stands eased into soft focus
But the swag lamp in the corner kept its glistening jet bead eyes and raven claws
Daring me to move, with its soulless gaze

2002