An interesting take on the ravages of grief, no one is immune to its suffering and people handle it in different ways. In the end, perhaps it is as you say: "Sun's radiance shine anew // The quagmire of grief abating." Let's hope so.

There is much struggle in this piece. Effective image to convey the void. Mentioning ‘taking a toll,’ is so very accurate. It is exhausting, the gravity and weight of grief. Stanza one is full of this struggle, especially “..buffeted by resistance.” That explains the fluctuation so well, as does “nodding acceptance,” as in compliance by way of resignation. Such a precise path description that I’m sorry you understand so well, Odin. ~~ djl