You Are Much Too Quiet Poem by Gert Strydom

You are much too quiet
and do not even say anything
and when you speak, your voice
is soft more husky than usual
and maybe you are still
not really awake

and while we are driving out to the street
an avocado pear falls from the tree
with a shattering crush,
splattering into pieces on the big pavement stones

and surprised, even with a little shriek
you draw away, protecting your body,
your entire face with both of your hands
with fingers spread out.