manuel of la brea

16

you were just there to try

for too long i’ve dwelled alone
on nights when i was sleeping under dread.
long were the last times i won,
i must awaken for something ahead.

i had been lost and confused,
wanting to feel some warmth.
the thorns grew around shoulders’ muse,
but your touch embraced the harm.

time has caressed our hearts
with wonder as we met by chance.
and your taste of sublime exalts;
your demeanor’s light i was entranced.

that night i was most dedicated to win,
but you were just there to try.
our paths collide, a united string—
a connection made the clock strike.