we delve in the murk of needs
predator and prey taking chances
with a glossary of gestures
nods and brushes to say hello
shrugs for goodbye a cabal semaphore
cancelling deceptions of speech
in the main
others use overt signals to engage
leaving dainty stains of language to fade
in time to an eloquent nought
we know them they know us
yet we have no knowledge of each other
but a distinction by instinct or primal motif
it is we in this dark place
covered bodies shaded minds may see
if brute hungers dissipate
what of sea earth fire sky?
natural clarities muddle us
propel regret of a success wasted
as easily as achieved
and what’s left is fine print
desperate boring lost
if we surface to talk
and choke in the stranglehold of words
johnpoetflanagan 
The second stanza is to die for…..
You are amazing.
Gina, always there for me
Truly powerful and raw, Great poetic effect.
Best wishes, Aquileana 😉
Aquileana, thank you so much
My best to you
John
Your words are alive. You imagery sings.
Myra, your responses to my works today have blitzed me in the most wonderful way. THANK YOU
John
“choke in the stranglehold of words” – that we do.
Thank you, Alicia, thank you
John
I read this several times, each time deepening into all that passes unspoken between us; a profound experience.
Willow, I deeply appreciate your comment and your taking the time to read and reflect
My best to you
John
Your poem rings true. So true that I respond infrequently to your creativity for fear that frequency might diminish my words. But I’m there beneath the waves, so as you swim, so keep a watery eye out! Charlie
Thank you, Charlie, thank you
poetry of an exceptionally high standard
we know them they know us
yet we have no knowledge of each other…
fabulous!
Thank you, Hollie, for your continuing support, it’s always gratifying to know one’s work reaches another and means something. Thank you.
My best to you always
john
My senses are stirring between the knowing of comfort and the unknowing of chance… Thank you for sharing your heart ~¤
Thank you, Linda, thank you very much
and i’m happy i found YOUR blog
my best
john
I’ve read this aloud many times and it flows as an elegant observation of the circumstance of human(?) engagement.
Thank you, Jon, My Friend,
for your interest and support, always in my corner. Thank you.