What does it matter
if the plumbing
is a little
complicated

Everything calls for translation

To send hot water
to the bathroom
the kitchen switch
must be turned

So it is
with your glances
{even remembering the
childhood prohibition
against turning around
to look}

Everything calls for translation

A rubber hose
fits on the bathroom sink
to warm the tub water

You look at me and
my heart catches
up to my throat

There is no handle
to release it

unless your hand
touches my cheek
with affirmation

Everything calls for translation

To make coffee in the morning
the water must also
run in the bathroom

As we sit in the dark
cellar cafe
with the curved brick ceiling
and you tell me
you loved me
from the beginnning

I suddenly understand
the tricky plumbing
of dry mouth
and watery eyes

and a heart
that empties again
again waiting
for a new surge
of messages from your
kitchen eyes
your
bathroom glance

The rubber hose of an
everpresent kiss
in waiting

Everything calls for translation