The sky begins to pale

over the black landscape

that is hidden from my eye.

The train rumbling through the countryside

doesn’t give it a second thought

and the passengers are silent

eyes closed or staring at screens.

In the passing towns, lights twinkle

and the shapes of roofs are visible.

Deserted stations lie, frost

on the platforms, doors slide open

to admit the lone traveller.

The sun rises somewhere in the distance

unseen from the train.