David Mohan

Brogans

I put them on to test
the space where you stood.
This is where you walked,
where my toes spread
out, almost snug.
I wonder if your tread
is similar to mine,
or if your shoes
fit like they should.

I walk out, tentative,
in ghost loafers.
Adopting your posture,
your gait, I walk
from heel to toe,
porch to kitchen.
Almost dizzy
I think (as you once did),
how much more time?

With a neat turn
I start again
looking for direction.
Steering a path,
I guide you back
into our room,
where, taking off
your shoes and lying down,
I sleep, for both of us,

the long afternoon.

David Mohan

received a PhD in English literature from Trinity College, Dublin. He has been published or has work forthcoming in Stirring, Poetry Salzburg Review, Stand, New World Writing, decomP, Word Riot, Alba, elimae, and A Clean Well-Lighted Place. In 2012 he won the Cafe Writers’ International Poetry Competition. His poetry has been shortlisted for The Bridport Prize and nominated for The Pushcart Prize.