Leaving Phnom Penh

Barrelling toward the airport

in an old tuk-tuk, early morning,

city inhabitants quietened after New Year.

I sense relief, breathe in possibility.

Roads are empty compared to the chaos

upon my arrival, as though time dancing

and chatting with family have quelled Phnom Penh,

cut back the population’s existence to basics.

Empty space allows lungs to contract,

expelling pain of yesterday. You are this city,

me the open air between buildings,

repelling your presence, I move on.