at this time of night   the small hours

when 

it is still black as hades outside

but for incidental lighting   

and all is quiet   

but for incidental noises   and marketa is asleep   

and i have put away last night dishes   and folded

the laundry   

and straightened-up the living room   and made a cup of tea   

this is the time when i can sit and collect my thoughts   

maybe write a poem   

or read a book   or bring to mind what was   or what's to come   

and maybe be a little wistful   or on edge   

with my imagination running wild   to secret places

`