Ellen Komkbiyil

The Night Sky's Answer

I could get lost in these high-walled streets, clay white, the sound of sea beyond. Stone paths all spiral in the same direction, compelling me towards center. A vendor of oranges moves with the sun, wearing garments the color of sky. This galaxy spins inside the universe, which edges out and also spins. Day curves into night. A
woodcrafter carves a box for jewels.

Are you there? I ask. The night sky's answer is full of stars.

moving shadow—
the date palm
fades into darkness