When we speak
I listen mainly
Listen mainly to you
Don’t I?

I accept the pattern
Settled early with us
I am the audience
And you the star

But occasionally
Even the understudy
Has something, something
To say

When you cut me off
Mid sentence, look away
I’m left hanging
Always surprised

I still expect some generosity
Reciprocity, balance
After all this time
Even now

And I reflect
How strange it is
Those that speak most of sharing
Seldom do

And you’re riffing
On your own melody
The best I can do
All that is required

Is to sing along
Jilted harmony, second string
I’m not supposed to have
My own song.

(c) Helen Valentina 2013, All Rights Reserved