after Catallus

So, I moved from many countries and overseas
to find you, my brother, in this dark pocket,

hoping I could offer a last bribe (my voice
unwrapped before your muted ashes?) to Death

since the turn of things has torn “my brother” away
from both himself and from me?
                                             Yes. Well ... This

ritual? I know what you’d say. Still, take it—
my sad duty to honor your dying—take it

wet with tears from your “my brother” who says (always
now) “Hello” and also “Goodbye.”