Thirst #2 by Emma McKervey

Thirst

In the erotic art of feudal Japan

the protagonists are never shown kissing.

Within the intimate billows and folds

of material and limbs the eyes are fixed

on the other’s, but the lips are not.

I hold on to this knowledge when you drink

from my water bottle, then having returned it

walk on. I hold the bottle with both hands

and drink deeply from what remains.