‘She Leaves’

a hollow space, without plump cushions
snug as velvety moles, or her clay lamp

that dappled the ceiling with shadows,
where red and green wires now blast

through a gash in the plasterwork
like the WHAAM! of a pop art rocket.

I slam tall shutters back on themselves
and a wane light embraces the dark

as I present my face up to the stars
like a moongazer seeking redemption.

COMMENT

Olivia Dawson was one of the runner-ups in our 24/7 Poetry Challenge, part of this year’s CAMPUS Digital Open Day.