Figures, R.Spuler

Figures
By Richard Spuler

Figures of speech
would have us say
“good-bye”
with Hollywood chagrin
and tough line-liners
(the kind that really
only come to mind
on mornings after).

Figures of silence
would have us act
(good-bye)
with pantomimes
and saintly gestures
(the kind that really
only happen once you're
dead and cherished).

Figures of despair
would have us die
g-o-o-d--b-y-e
severed again with
every drawn breath
(the kind that—pro-
longed—gives
better ratings).

Figures of compassion
would have us live
good-bye
for having been
at the crossing
(the kind that, if you're
lucky, happens once
before you're dead and cherished).