Hydrophobia

[atiguhya padma]

We’re lying here side by side
Upon my bed. Your hand and mine clenched
You splash-happy in the river-tide
My dry mood by you is drenched

So I choose to swim downstream
A summer’s day beneath an oak tree
We shelter some foolish dream
Heavy rainclouds break on you and me

And I swim further. Our feet
In that December dance. We hold tight
And I can feel your heart beat
Beneath the winter moon’s cold clear light

And that’s where it all began
Fear of rain, water-anxiety
And here we both lie on my divan
Self-control abandons me

Now I know what I have done
Days begin like drizzle in the air
Each eve I drown all alone
And there’s water, water, everywhere