adrift, a-dreaming

I dream of being one of those protagonists
who retreats into the wilderness
run-down cottage on an island
barely more than wind whistling through stones
inheritance from a distant relative
a chance to float at peace

To find solace after frustration
appreciate the steam rising from a mug of tea
feel the hard earth beneath the rusty spade
without the responsibility of life pressing down

Growing wiser and slightly older
away from the inbox and notifications
smash the smartphone by accident
but let it sit there unbidden
until it becomes plot-relevant
that my isolation must be interrupted

Instead I grow here in this city
on a larger island though still floating
through the seas of crowds and purpose
paying rent and teasing the last hints of pleasure
from the privilege of being part of society