beating a black path

through thick scrub

of mangled air and

shredded space to feel

what? a hand tightly

wrapped round soul’s sight?

peering through fear’s shadow

murmuring an absent colour

‍

beating a black path

through undergrowth blind

to her and him and he and she

cold knuckles fumble to feel

what? a pummelled heart

weeping a child’s tears?

a half-faced corner stares

hard and long and aching

‍

beating a black path

to who knows where