Loneliness is a gradual climb.

The ultimate end is in clear sight

and yet

you continue onward and upward.

Crumbling earth falls in your eyes,

grey fog enters your airways

with a cold, sharp bite.

Then finally your destination.

It wraps you in that bitter blanket of isolation

and regret.

Soothing you with rancid milk,

a stale piece of what could have been,

once.

Whispering into your ear,

a promise.

I will set you free.

Trust me

and jump.