Departure

I wonder why the white hair
of the dying day
is lit with fire
that flares and sparkles
and covers her face
with a mascara of gold.

Is this a metaphor,
the dictum of an old saint,
a glorious way to say goodbye
for a life well lived?

Or is this a bold invitation
to depart with dignity,
to finish strong,
to leave an indelible mark?

Or is it a cunning smile
of a callous husband
fleeing his matrimonial home
for good?

George MacLean Akurunwa, 2008