Strangers in Newcastle
On Westgate Road, another stranger
asks me for directions.
My tongue ties as I try
to mouth new, puzzling words
and meet her gaze.
My heart hammers.
I try again.
She stands close to listen
and my breath mingles with hers almost.
Under the eaves house sparrows
nestle against the north-east wind.
Their chattering carries down to the street.
We listen and smile.
Her hands shape a bird,
the cold sun throws a silhouette
against the crumbling brick wall,
her fingers fluttering wings
stretched as if to fly.
And my mind wanders
seeking home in her eyes
I step towards her.
