I am not there

While she waits curled
Under covers, tense
In semi-darkness
Hair splayed back

And I am not here

When he came submissive
To tenderness and giving
Into her wishes
The present unsaid

And I am not

There I saw her
Taut and imploring
Where he presses she
Responds releasing

'Are you with me?'

And to that urgent
Asking of desire
I heard the other partner
Wordlessly reply

'This is the body's dialogue
Let the covers of language fall
Whoever needs to speak of it
Cannot talk at all'

'I am here I am here I am here'

Are you with me?

Peter Jukes 1981