Lessons on Loneliness

I’ve become good at sleeping by myself.

I can teach you how I trick myself into believing pillows are flesh.

I’ve become good at talking to blank pages.

If you want we can sit down one weekend,

And I’ll show you how not to expect a response.

If you are inclined to learn,

I’ll tell you of how your music can sing for you, and you alone;

You’ll learn that every songwriter writes ballads with your name hidden in them.

I’m sure that with just a few lessons,

You will be able to carry out the dialogues of great lovers

With just yourself.

I can teach you how to pretend that the cool air from the fan that grazes your skin is the hot breath of someone who whispers into your neck.

I’ve become good at eating alone.

I can teach you,

You see it’s dinner for two but you cut the recipe in half.