My primary know-how of crying
is mostly to brace
this closeness to Styx
reeking from ash and embalming,
preparing for rigor seeping through veins,
and welcome the shadow
that walks by my side.
I have taught myself
how bliss can be built
from hope and beginnings,
but often, at the mercy of night
I see the end of my journey,
with the ferryman waiting.
callous and cool
and me, a pilgrim
with penniless heartbeats
begging
for the grace of a bridge.
“After the Rain” by Cyril Rolando
Linked to Sunday Muse, a bit of a existential angst.
—
November 24, 2019
Björn Rudbergs writings 
“Welcoming the shadow that walks by my side.” That line really speaks to me. (Mine is furry, lol.) Oh, your second stanza has such beautiful lines: the ferryman waiting, you the pilgrim with penniless heartbeats. Gorgeous writing, Bjorn!
Actually that is almost a quote from the film “The seventh Seal”….
This has depth, Björn – resonates.
This poem really resonates with me. As usual beautiful written, with depths enough in just a few lines that I want to read it again to ponder.
We all have a shadow that walks by our side. A shadow cannot be seen unless there is light first. I wonder in the end do the two sides collide awaiting the bridge between here and there. Perhaps, it is the darkness I fear or am I comfortable in darkness as that is where I roam the dreamscape.
This is deep and engaging Björn — like “the shadow that walks by my side.”
I can relate to the feelings here Bjorn. Bridges do seem to provide a certain grace. This poem is beautiful, thought provoking, and heartfelt. Always love your poetry!
yes, “the grace of a bridge” a leisurely stroll that fades away into nothing… In one of Chuck Palahniuk’s books, the person found a massage therapist that could act as a bridge. Take the concoction that puts one to sleep and ends things and you go out with a nice relaxing massage…
I really like your ending.
“a pilgrim
with penniless heartbeats
begging
for the grace of a bridge.”
This resonates.
“pilgrim with penniless heartbeats”… and yes, that bridge – whatever form it takes. Nice writing!
I hope you find the grace of the bridge you seek. Thank you for this thoughtful poem.
Life, so many layers, and just beyond that grasp, a fleeting fragility.