Where color is spare

Where color is spare
we rely on shape
and shade. Angles matter,
the sense of touch.

Early, in the stillness before birds,
we feel our way, knowing
the slick of floor tiles in
the bathroom, the jut of corner,
the slant of closet door,
its handle like a friend’s firm grip.

Bath robe plush
under the hand.

The reach for the railing
for confidence down the stairs.
The button we push to wake
the coffee maker.

The light switches
we decide to not use,
the mystery of shadow
surrounding us.

Luci Shaw