Arias For The Midnight Runner

I remember a body with ribs exposed leaning out of my hands
The heat of the day
And the pain in my head

I was open to the medication but closed to the symptoms
A coiled relief map of extremities
Trees awaiting the river to wash over the grass below

The notes of music that come from tires on the road
Coming from under the window above
Slowing when the wind slows

The phone that doesn’t ring anymore heated to 425 degrees
Receiving the bill by mutual respect
Ash not withstanding the caller

- Chris Mansel