XI**

Please excuse my
lack of vivacity
recently
and the fact that I’ve missed every
ocean-side view
so far.
I know I sleep only
sparingly
and at night my eyes are always
watching
keeping my girl safe.
I know I’ve missed many
top-deck galas
and the Sunday morning service
but I pray bedside instead.
How could I not heed
a premonition like this
(that we will, soon coming,
be strung on a deathly line)?
How could I so endanger my
child?
Her father-
oh, what a brainless man-
insists that she see all the
grandeur.

Darling, did you regret
strolling by daylight
when your daughter and I
watched you die?