I like —
overhead lights, christmas lights, lights alike
they chase the night away
and keep shadowy dreams at bay

We intertwined string lights in our dorm room
weaving the strands in and out of our bed frame
I kept my desk lamp on through parts of the night
A nightlight by my bed, glowing dimly in sight

But —
I would lose the controller to my string lights
And turn off my desk lamp
I would forget to charge my nightlight

So, in the end, it was just the window light
And coats forming sinister figures,
ready to take flight
shelves looming down, right as —

My roommate turns in the top bunk.
I turn, too, and close my eyes.

Good night. And I guess
I also like having a roommate.