Going Out

Close the door behind you when you leave
and turn the key.
I shall stay here
in the dark
for a while.
Or maybe a little longer.
I'll put my thoughts
in a small wooden box by the fire
and watch the flames
as they curl over
the three bars.
When you come back
I will be waiting.
Nothing will have changed
except for the small pile of ash
in the chair by the window
where you left me.