The only one (2018)

A bird shrieks
that the morning has arrived
he is lonely and chilled
wants to keep the night around.

But the morning is implacable
like an unused freight train
times hundred thousand
the morning keeps company
with strangers cycling cheerfully
cycling to a future
a future that is bright and voluptuous
and also merciful, healthy and hospitable.

I get dressed and arm myself
against undisguised mockery
and abrasive evaluations...

from De dieren in mij (‘The animals in me’) by Delphine Lecompte
© English translation by Delphine Lecompte with additions from Monica Germino