O n e  N i g h t  S t a n d

by Carla Anderton-Sealy


My last stronghold has fallen
I’m not sure if it was drugs or alcohol
Or even worse – loneliness – either which way
We appear to be here now…
I know I’m just like the other ones
With unrecognizable faces and names
I can still see their imprints on the sheets
In the bed we’re getting in…
If I close my eyes I can be anybody
A useful trick I finally perfected
And I’ll make all the requisite noises
To make you feel more like a man…
Afterwards, basking in the glow of the moon
And the cigarette I insisted on lighting
We exchange the usual banalities
And share a towel – like communion
Because, like God, I will forsake you
As soon as the morning dawns
But first I’ll leave you a present
Take some of my self-respect