I would listen to music while you read this one,

something haunting and electric.

A soundtrack will add emotion. Try Brian Eno.

Or, you might consider a glass of wine.

This particular poem is enhanced by a good Bordeaux,

although a Malbec will do.

It will add a depth of meaning.

Maybe lie back and have someone else read it aloud to you

(with the music on, of course).

Then it will be romantic, if you want to be seduced.

You might want to read it to someone else--

on the train, for instance. A "hey listen to this one" kind of thing.

A shared moment. You have to make eye contact occasionally, though.

Or the words won’t stick.

You could print it out and stick it on the fridge.

So when you go to get your morning milk,

You are reminded of why you woke up.

That can be very motivating.

I guess what I’m saying is that this poem is yours

to do with what you like.

You don’t have to wonder what I was thinking when I wrote it,

Or puzzle out any thick metaphors.

That’s just too much work sometimes, don’t you think?

I wrote it so that you can feel what you like

without being manipulated.

A little gift, that’s all.

A container

for your own meaning.

You’re welcome.

Next Chapter: Dear Future Self