Dearly, Hopelessly

I have constructed something
around my chest that resembles
a gate shut tight, thorny vines
curled around each brass post
and I have reinforced the locks
with plaster and thick coiling wire
and it was not meant for you
but it will keep you out
(I hope, if all goes
according to plan)

but there is something in your
gray and slow
that brings back color
and I know I should wake up
from you, but you give
such beautiful dreams
and I know I should remember
all the other love notes you
are sending, but I cannot
quite see past your face
tonight

and so perhaps
it is too late for me
perhaps the locks
are easy for you to pick
perhaps I am
dearly, hopelessly
damned