Salt Line

“Dear John…

It’s been so long.

Your major position is open,

And no one wants to take it.

They fear to step into the house

Where they killed you.

Your daughter is strong—

She has always been.

As for Jaime, he’s dead.

I’m sure you’ve seen him,

Or if there is space for him

Next to you.

So… what will happen to your once-owned land?

Your family lineage has been lost, John…

John, can you hear me?

Well, I thought I’d let you know what—ever became of the empire you built,

Now just a skeleton in the silt.

The fences are sagging, the cattle are gone,

And silence is the only thing greeted by dawn.

John, are you listening? The wind’s picking up,

Spilling the dregs from your favorite cup.

A story of iron that’s finally been sold.

I’ll leave this letter right here on the floor,

In the hall where you don’t live anymore.

The vacancy’s permanent,

And the land has secrets it’s decided to keep.