between the pages

make an art out of the space between the pages 
behind the lines, in the crook of climax and falling action. 
it is not so bad, being invisible. 
you will never weep for a lover, a parent, a sibling, a friend 
(but you will) 
you will never need to carry the world alone 
(but you do) 
you will never have to be brave 
(but you are, you have to be, to live in this world) 
you will know the taste of peace, 
like pears slowly ripening in a summer garden, 
and you will be happy, won't you? 

(there has never been a hero that was happy, but many have come close.) 

it is quiet, here. 
life is kinder, here. 
take a breath and take a step. 
you do not need a cinematic finale. 
you do not need to conclude for the audience. 
come behind the curtains, behind the sets and scenes and soliloquys 
and learn. 
and love. 
and live. 

(don't you want a quiet life?)