The Signal

New York; my birthday, 1988.
4th day, 12th hour on the 10th month;
room 23 at the Algonquin Hotel…
I remember the sound of your suede leather shoes;
we were one with the world that day.
We’ll meet once again, we said —
but only if the memory doesn’t fade.
Paris, the Eiffel Tower
Noon, 10th month —
noon, same date,
My birthday falls on a Wednesday that year;
Remember
the sound of my footsteps,
the Eiffel Tower will be quiet.
and I’ll be sure to wear the same suede leather shoes.
and I will know the sound, the sound
the sound of your footsteps.
I’m so tired; whose idea was this anyway?
Paris, 2 kids — always the planning…
Noon, 10th month
When did it change —
the story of us?
it’s the day.
Can I choose? You used to let me choose, but then —
Maybe she’s changed her hair
I didn’t have to choose, because you knew already.
It’s gotta be time for lunch.
It’s time…
Is anyone else hungry?
It’s time.
Let’s go now —
Noon,
There’s nothing more
Let’s go now
Wait;
How could I be
never mind.
so silly to think
I know, I know, I know
that the sound —
I know that sound
that the sound of a footstep —
I know that sound…
After all these years…