Poetic Divination

“Poem for the Family” by Susan Cataldo

Before I went to sleep, the soft lamplights

from the tenements across the street,

still, in the night, resembled peace.

There is something I forgot to be grateful

for. But I’m not uneasy. This poem

is enough gratitude for the day. That leaf

tapping again the window, enough

music for the night. My love’s even

breathing, a lullaby for me.

Gentle is the sun’s touch

as it brushes the earth’s revolutions.

Fragrant is the moon in February’s

sky. Stars look down & witness,

never judge. The City moves

beneath me, out of sight.

O let this poem be a planet

or a haven. Heaven for a poet

homeward bound. Rest my son’s head

upon sweet dreams & contentment.

Let me turn out the light to rest.