Ode To Silence

We sat opposite each other;
I saw you, you saw me.
Yet we were miles apart,
Working individually.

It was our quiet refuge from
The day's chaotic bustle,
To hear nothing but our thoughts
And our papers' soft rustle.

We sat together in silence,
At war with the world around
But at peace with each other.
There was no need for sound.

Alas! That comfort is gone now;
From our refuge was I banished.
Someone spoke into our silence
And our quiet teacups vanished.

(To Rustom, With Love)