Overhear

June 6 2012

Sound carries

over open water.

Its skin, stretched taut

the stillness of air.

Back in the city

in the gritty cacophony

snatches of sound

come at you, and at you,

unbidden bits

of hidden lives.

You can raise your voice

in the anonymous noise

of crowds.

But here

matters of the heart

unburdened darkness

the confession you started

and stopped

are best taken inside.

Or whispered

in the breathy warmth

of lips to ear,

the semaphore

of silent gesture,

your own private code.

We know our neighbour’s business

we overhear.

And passing on the gravel road

feel smiles tighten

wave nicely.

Our own discretion assured,

but never quite sure

our secrets

are safe.