For a Daughter
The bearers will need access descending from his room
Dismantled – the stair-gate – a low barrier removed
she’s too small to know that her Daddy has left
accompanied by strangers – no last goodbye – not kissed –
he’s leaving behind a wide-open gap
one she will feel when grief finally grabs –
when she’s a mother lifting a latched gate –
for her child’s protection – then the opening re-made –
an ascent – unlocked – her memory of his space –
his goodbye no more missing – on a landing – they’ll embrace
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