In a city in the northern lands
we sat on the grass by the river
the stone bridge sheltering us
in the dimming light of late summer.
Do you recall that time?
I was different, or was I?
Chattering nervous words of meaning
with borderline magniloquence
I ruled out the prospect
of any lyrical gesture
yet your smile did not fade away.
Some coquetry, a mincing movement
matching the softness of your voice
divesting me of my suspect
no more misdoubt, a subtle joy.
With anachronic games
of flirt and charm
we juggled with flying castles.
Do you recall that time?
I was daydreaming, or was I?
Daring to overcome my shakiness
with passion, an impromptu action
a triumph in my mind.
Yet your body is now still
distress lingers in your eyes
A misfortune cleaved us through
in this city in the northern lands
no more sitting in the grass by the river
no stone bridges sheltering us
in the dimming light of late summer.
Do you recall that time?
You were misreading, and so was I.