The flash of a blade on giddy steps,

the camera a sniffing dog

searching for clues in puddled dark. 

 

Two shadows meet with desperation

then flee from prying eyes. 

 

Passionella waits in the sombre light

of a dingy room,

looks down at the street

watching for watchers,

the gauloises glow. 

 

A soft knock comes.

He is there with his crooked smile,

offers her pernod,

haunts her in familiar bars. 

              - 0 -

 

The window looks out on a sad canal,

blue lights disturb the water;

in the room signs of a struggle,

a hint of cheap perfume lingers,

life goes on. 

 

FIN